7 - Supramolecular network-based self-healing polymer materials

Abstract

Formed by noncovalent bonds, supramolecular polymer materials could form a dynamic network and then exhibit the ability to heal their damages. Actually, as an emerging and fascinating field, supramolecular self-healing materials have been developed for a decade. Because of the characteristics of noncovalent interaction, such as reversibility and self-repairing, these materials are being employed for a range of applications. In this chapter, some recent advances of supramolecular self-healing materials based on noncovalent interactions, including hydrogen bonding, π–π stacking, metal–ligand complexes, and ionomers are enumerated. Furthermore, the self-healing properties and mechanisms of these materials are described. Finally, their defects and prospects are also discussed.