2024 Volume 24 Issue 3 Pages 111-118
Self-healing is a materials function to repair its structure and function from damage, either spontaneously or in response to stimuli. We succeeded in adding self-healing properties to polymeric materials by introducing two types of supramolecular network structures. Reversible cross-link forms with a host-guest inclusion complex, which can repeatedly associate and dissociate. The self-healing materials were reattached to the cut surface and recovered their original mechanical properties. Movable cross-link is a one of topological cross-link in which the polymer chain penetrates the cavity of cyclic molecules. The sliding motion of the cross-linking point with deformation resulted in high toughness and self-restoration. These supramolecular network structures improve the lifetime of polymeric materials by adding toughness and self-healing properties, thereby reducing the amount of petroleum-based polymeric materials would realize a circular economy.
