Mechanochemistry of dynamic chalcogen-containing polymers: a minireview

In recent years, mechanochemistry of polymers, which means the reactivity of polymers under mechanical stimuli, has been widely studied and greatly developed. Among various kinds of mechano-responsive polymers, dynamic chalcogen-containing polymers have attracted more attention due to their sensitive responsiveness and precise biofunction. In this perspective, we provide an overview of mechanochemistry of dynamic chalcogen-containing polymers, including both fundamental mechanochemistry and applications. Particularly, we pay most attention to mechanically induced colour/fluorescence changes, drug release, material strengthening and toughening of various functional mechano-responsive polymeric materials. Additionally, currently unsolved issues, challenges, and possible opportunities in the future are also summarized and discussed.

Automated summary

In recent years, there has been extensive research and development on the mechanochemistry of polymers, specifically the reactivity of polymers under mechanical stimuli. More attention has been given to dynamic chalcogen-containing polymers due to their sensitive responsiveness and precise biofunction. This perspective provides an overview of mechanochemistry in dynamic chalcogen-containing polymers, covering fundamental mechanochemistry and applications. It focuses on mechanically induced color/fluorescence changes, drug release, and material strengthening and toughening of functional mechano-responsive polymeric materials. Additionally, currently unsolved issues, challenges, and potential opportunities for the future are summarized and discussed.