Functionalization of Network Polymers Based on Reaction Control

Abstract

Network polymers show excellent properties such as a high mechanical strength and solvent resistance. On the other hand, the removal of network polymers is difficult due to insolubility. In order to solve the issue, de-cross-linkable network polymers have attracted much attention.In this review, the design of network polymers having degradable units is introduced with focusing on the main-chain degradable polyperoxides-based network polymers and curable hyperbranched polymers having degradable linkages densely. Curable adhesives are one of the applications of network polymers, and de-crosslinkable network polymers can be used as dismantlable adhesives, which demonstrate both sufficient bonding strength in use and easy debonding on demand. Increase in bonding strength by the network formation and debonding by degreasing a mechanical strength and solubilization in response to de-cross-linking are reported.