Dynamic Polymer Networks: A New Avenue towards Sustainable and Advanced Soft Machines. (11th February 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Wemyss, Alan M; Ellingford, Christopher; Morishita, Yoshihiro; Bowen, Chris; Wan, Chaoying
• Is Part Of: Angewandte Chemie. Volume 133:Number 25(2021)
• Page Start: 13841
• Page End: 13852
• Publication Date: 2021-02-11
• Subjects: dynamic polymer networks -- electroactive polymers -- soft machines; Chemistry -- Periodicals; 540
• DOI: 10.1002/ange.202013254
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0044-8249

Abstract

Abstract: While the fascinating field of soft machines has grown rapidly over the last two decades, the materials they are constructed from have remained largely unchanged during this time. Parallel activities have led to significant advances in the field of dynamic polymer networks, leading to the design of three‐dimensionally cross‐linked polymeric materials that are able to adapt and transform through stimuli‐induced bond exchange. Recent work has begun to merge these two fields of research by incorporating the stimuli‐responsive properties of dynamic polymer networks into soft machine components. These include dielectric elastomers, stretchable electrodes, nanogenerators, and energy storage devices. In this Minireview, we outline recent progress made in this emerging research area and discuss future directions for the field. Abstract : Polymer networks cross‐linked through bonds capable of exchanging with one another have a high potential for increasing the sustainability of polymeric materials. However, the adaptive and responsive properties of these networks can also enhance the properties of electroactive polymers in smart and functional devices. This Minireview highlights recent work at this emerging research boundary and discusses future directions for dynamic polymer networks in soft machine applications.