Polymeric materials have been divided into two categories: linear polymers and cross-linked or network polymers. Linear polymers typically have melting points and can be reprocessed and recycled, but are not durable enough for many applications. Crosslinked polymers, commonly called thermosets, are mechanically tough, but are not able to be recycled. Malleable crosslinked polymers are a new class of materials, wherein reversible covalent bonds are employed. These materials can exhibit mechanical properties of typical thermosets under ambient conditions, yet at elevated temperatures or under other stimuli they can be reprocessed and recycled through a cross-link exchange and rearrangement process, usually with the aid of catalysts. This presentation will focus on the development of an imine-linked catalyst-free network polymer, which becomes malleable by application of either heat or water, thus enabling its unique processability and full recyclability while retaining tough mechanical properties. The application of such malleable polyimine thermoset in functional composites fabrication, e.g., solid-state electrolyte membrane, carbon fiber reinforced composites, and electronic skin, will also be discussed.

Novel malleable covalent network polymers and their applications in developing rehealable and fully recyclable functional composite materials

256th National Meeting (2018)

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