A stretchable, mechanically robust polymer exhibiting shape-memory-assisted self-healing and clustering-triggered emission

Self-healing and recyclable polymer materials are being developed through extensive investigations on noncovalent bond interactions. However, they typically exhibit inferior mechanical properties. Therefore, the present study is aimed at synthesizing a polyurethane-urea elastomer with excellent mechanical properties and shape-memory-assisted self-healing behavior. In particular, the introduction of coordination and hydrogen bonds into elastomer leads to the optimal elastomer exhibiting good mechanical properties (strength, 76.37 MPa; elongation at break, 839.10%; toughness, 308.63 MJ m(-3)) owing to the phased energy dissipation mechanism involving various supramolecular interactions. The elastomer also demonstrates shape-memory properties, whereby the shape recovery force that brings damaged surfaces closer and facilitates self-healing. Surprisingly, all specimens exhibite clustering-triggered emission, with cyan fluorescence is observed under ultraviolet light. The strategy reported herein for developing multifunctional materials with good mechanical properties can be leveraged to yield stimulus-responsive polymers and smart seals. Polymers formed with non-covalent bonds are increasingly being developed, but often show inferior mechanical properties. Here, the authors report the development of high performances polyurethane-urea elastomer with shape-memory assisted self-healing behaviour

Automated summary

The study focuses on the synthesis of a polyurethane-urea elastomer with excellent mechanical properties and shape-memory-assisted self-healing behavior. By introducing coordination and hydrogen bonds, the elastomer exhibits good mechanical properties and shape-memory properties, making it suitable for the development of stimulus-responsive polymers and smart seals.