Fan, X., Zheng, J., Yeo, J. C. C., Yu, X., Rusli, W., & Li, Z. (2025). An ionogel material platform for adhesives, elastomers, and shape-memory polymers. Polymer, 341, 129289. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.polymer.2025.129289
Abstract:
Achieving high adhesiveness, shape memory behaviour, elasticity and degradability within a single ionogel system remains a significant materials challenge. In this study, we report the design of a multifunctional, degradable ionogel that simultaneously exhibits high interfacial adhesion, thermally responsive shape memory behavior, and on-demand degradability. The ionogel is synthesized via in situ polymerization in 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium diethylphosphate ([EMIM][DEP]), incorporating ester bond-containing acryloxypropyl polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (A-POSS) as a dynamic crosslinker, and utilizing [2-(methacryloyloxy)ethyl]dimethyl-(3-sulfopropyl)ammonium hydroxide (MEDSAH) and acrylamide (AAM) as functional monomers. The mechanical and functional properties of the ionogel can be modulated by changing the polymer content. At low polymer density, the ionogel exhibits high softness and stretchability with an elongation at break exceeding 1424%, along with strong adhesion to various substrates. At high polymer density, the formation of a denser network structure enables thermally triggered shape memory behavior. Importantly, the presence of hydrolyzable ester linkages allows the ionogel to be completely degraded under alkaline conditions. This work presents a versatile and sustainable design strategy for developing next-generation soft materials, with promising applications in reconfigurable devices, wearable electronics, and environmentally friendly technologies
License type:
Publisher Copyright
Funding Info:
This research is supported by core funding from: Science and Engineering Research Council (SERC) Central Research Fund (Use-Inspired Basic Research)
Grant Reference no. : NA