Mechano-stiffening biopolymers, particularly proteins in the human body, often strengthen in response to deformation. For example, fibrin, during blood clotting and actin cytoskeletal filaments during cell movement rapidly stiffen under deformations applied by cells. These biopolymers have inspired us to develop a new class of polymers and gels that exhibit strain-triggered covalent crosslinking. We describe the synthesis of polymers with reactive, crosslinkable groups that are initially sterically protected (“cryptic”) and only react under strain. We previously demonstrated strain-induced increases in the Young’s modulus of organo gels based on this concept. We have since adapted this design to hydrophilic gels and water-soluble polymers via incorporation of hydrophilic monomers. In this presentation we will discuss the design of these new materials, their ability to crosslink under deformation and shear forces, the applicability of this approach to water soluble cellulosic polymers and their potential real world applications in latent crosslinking coating and adhesive systems.<br/>

Strain activated covalent crosslinking in synthetic and naturally derived polymers

2019 Spring National Meeting

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