Epoxy-based multifunctional re-bondable polymer with self-healing, shape memory and superb bonding properties

Abstract

Thermoset epoxy resin-based materials are widely used, but their permanent cross-linked network limits their processability and reusability, which can lead to environmental burdens. In this work, by exploiting the weak reactivity of aniline to design appropriate reaction ratios, we achieved a linear link between the epoxy resin and the curing agent. This linear link, along with the crosslinking points provided by the flexibly branched polyurethanes, avoids the inherent brittleness associated with the highly crosslinked network of conventional epoxy resins. As a result, the adhesive exhibits extraordinary improvements in extensibility and toughness. The lap shear strength, tensile strength and elongation at break reach 11.9 MPa, 14.4 MPa and 607 %, respectively. The fracture toughness is as high as 109.6 kJ/m2, far beyond the existing epoxy adhesives. The synergistic effect of disulfide bonds and hydrogen bonds confers the adhesive with self-healing and repeatable bonding characteristics. The multi-level hydrogen bonding and appropriate phase separation structure are key to optimizing toughness, resulting in excellent comprehensive performance. The introduction of polyurethane not only improves toughness but also enhances the interfacial bonding force between the adhesive and the substrate, broadening the scope of applications. The prepared high-performance polymers provide new insights into reusable epoxy adhesives.