Composites found in nature exhibit a range of desirable, adaptive properties. In the squid beak, the degree of crosslinking is varied along its length, resulting in a mechanical gradient that connects a stiff tip to soft body tissues. We have designed polymer/cellulose nanocrystal (CNC) nanocomposites to mimic the architecture and function of the squid beak. Using photoinduced crosslinking chemistry, we control the degree of crosslinking within the material in order to investigate the role of crosslinking between the CNCs themselves, the CNCs and the matrix polymer, and within the matrix polymer. In the dry state, strong hydrogen bonding interactions between adjacent CNCs reinforce the percolating filler network, so only a small mechanical contrast is observed between crosslinked and uncrosslinked samples. When the films are exposed to water, the noncovalent interactions are disrupted, resulting in a significant mechanical contrast determined by the covalent crosslinks. By controlling the UV exposure time, we show that a mechanical gradient that spans over 2-orders of magnitude in stiffness can be achieved. This presentation focuses on our latest results with these materials.

Mechanically adaptive nanocomposites inspired by the squid beak

Macromolecular Chemistry: The Second Century

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ACS Spring 2020 National Meeting & Expo

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.