The role of polymer mechanochemistry in responsive materials and additive manufacturing

Polymer mechanochemistry converts mechanical forces in materials to chemical reactions through the response of functional groups known as mechanophores. This Review discusses the colorimetric, mechanical, chemical and electronic responses of mechanophores that may be useful in materials for strain sensing and strengthening, soft devices and additive manufacturing. The use of mechanical forces to chemically transform polymers dates back decades. In recent years, the use of mechanochemistry to direct constructive transformations in polymers has resulted in a range of engineered molecular responses that span optical, mechanical, electronic and thermal properties. The chemistry that has been developed is now well positioned for use in materials science, polymer physics, mechanics and additive manufacturing. Here, we review the historical backdrop of polymer mechanochemistry, give an overview of the existing toolbox of mechanophores and associated theoretical methods, and speculate as to emerging opportunities in materials science for which current capabilities are seemingly well suited. Non-linear mechanical responses and internal, amplifying stimulus-response feedback loops, including those enabled by, or coupled to, microstructured metamaterial architectures, are seen as particularly promising.

Automated summary

Polymer mechanochemistry involves converting mechanical forces in materials to chemical reactions through the response of functional groups known as mechanophores. This technology has applications in materials science, polymer physics, and additive manufacturing. The historical development of using mechanical force to chemically transform polymers spans decades, leading to a range of engineered molecular responses that impact optical, mechanical, electronic, and thermal properties.