Preparation of a thermoset polymeric membrane with shape memory and inherent self-healing properties

Abstract

Herein, a poly(1,2,4-triazole) derivative containing double-pendant functional groups (Furfuryl: Fu and Pyridine: Py), supported by reversible cross-linking (with bismalimide: b-Ma), “PTA-Fu-Py/Ma” was prepared and characterized from poly(isophthalic dihydrazide). We demonstrated that this polymeric membrane exhibits higher chemical, thermal, mechanical, and dimensional stability compared to its primary polyhydrazide and removed its limitations by attaining new capabilities including high modulus, recoverability, reusability, shape memory and high inherent self-healing. These characteristics and its specific morphology make PTA-Fu-Py/Ma more effective and suitable for long or consecutive work cycles under harsh conditions, particularly in commercial membranes. The successful progress of PTA-Fu-Py/Ma preparation and its characterization was revealed by using experimental analyses. The results indicate that the molar ratio of Fu to Py pendants in PTA-Fu-Py/Ma should not exceed 1:3 in order to achieve appropriate levels of elasticity, processability, and solubility. The selected bismaleimide leads to a more amorphous morphology with numerous channels between reinforced walls due to cross-links. By comparing and combining the results of theoretical studies based on DFT/B3LYP/6–311++G(d,p) and experimental analysis, we demonstrate that an increasing molar ratio of Fu to Py in PTA-Fu-Py/Ma results in a relative EHOMO-LUMO reduction. Additionally, the fast cooling during the self-healing process only minimally affects the quality and stability of PTA-Fu-Py/Ma.