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Dynamically mechanochromic, fluorescence-responsive, and underwater sensing cellulose nanocrystal-based conductive
Hongtian Zhang1, Yunfeng Cao1, Yongke Hu2
1Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Efficient Processing and Utilization of Forest Resources, Jiangsu Provincial Key Lab Pulp & Paper Science and Technology, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing 210037, PR China.
Researchers developed new cellulose nanocrystal (CNC) elastomers that change color with touch and are water-resistant. These advanced photonic materials offer enhanced stability and conductivity for applications like anti-counterfeiting and wearables.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Nanotechnology
- Biomimicry
Background:
- Cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) are explored for photonic materials mimicking biological skin.
- Traditional CNC materials have limitations: static optical properties and water sensitivity.
- Developing responsive and durable CNC-based materials is crucial for advanced applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To create CNC-based conductive elastomers with dynamic mechanochromism and fluorescence.
- To enhance water resistance and structural stability of CNC photonic films.
- To enable encrypted information transmission in diverse environments.
Main Methods:
- In-situ swelling-photopolymerization method was used to incorporate carbon quantum dots (CQDs) and hydrophobic deep eutectic solvents (HDES) into CNC films.
- Development of poly(HDES)/C-CNC elastomer by leveraging non-covalent and hydrophobic interactions.
- Characterization of mechanochromism, fluorescence, conductivity, and self-adhesive properties.
Main Results:
- The developed elastomers exhibit dynamic mechanochromism and fluorescence responsiveness.
- Enhanced water resistance and structural stability were achieved through HDES incorporation.
- The material demonstrated excellent ionic conductivity and self-adhesive properties for encrypted information transmission.
Conclusions:
- Poly(HDES)/C-CNC elastomers represent a significant advancement in photonic materials.
- These materials offer robust performance in both air and aquatic environments.
- Potential applications include anti-counterfeiting, human-machine interfaces, and wearable devices.
