We have investigated new designs for mechanochemically-reactive species (mechanophores) and the ability to amplify chemo-mechanical coupling via force-activated self-immolative polymers. Our new mechanophore designs are capable of activation via force-guided bond bending motions, as opposed to more common approaches that utilized bond elongation. Key features of our design include the ability to release an organic small molecule as the chemical output arising from mechanical input, and mechanochemical reactivity that does not inherently require bond scission within the polymer main chain. In addition to our current results on these �flex activated� mechanophores, we will also discuss our recent progress toward force-activated self-immolative polymers (SIPs). Integrating mechanochemical activation as a triggering mechanism for SIPs gives rise to amplified responses to physical stress, and may enable new modes of small molecule release for applications including drug delivery and self-reinforcing materials.

Mechanochemical flex activation and mechano-responsive self-immolative polymers

247th National Meeting (2014)

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