title: Unveiling the molecular mechanism of self-healing in a telechelic, supramolecular polymer network.
abstract: Reversible polymeric networks can show self-healing properties due to their ability to reassemble after application of stress and fracture, but typically the relation between equilibrium molecular dynamics and self-healing kinetics has been difficult to disentangle. Here we present a well-characterized, self-assembled bulk network based on supramolecular assemblies, that allows a clear distinction between chain dynamics and network relaxation. Small angle x-ray scattering and rheological measurements provide evidence for a structurally well-defined, dense network of interconnected aggregates giving mechanical strength to the material. Different from a covalent network, the dynamic character of the supramolecular bonds enables macroscopic flow on a longer time scale and the establishment of an equilibrium structure. A combination of linear and nonlinear rheological measurements clearly identifies the terminal relaxation process as being responsible for the process of self-healing.
authors: Experimental Polymer Physics, Institute of Physics, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle 06120, Germany.
authors: Tingzi
authors: T
authors: Yan
authors: Experimental Polymer Physics, Institute of Physics, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle 06120, Germany.
authors: Klaus
authors: K
authors: Schröter
authors: Chair of Macromolecular Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle 06120, Germany.
authors: Florian
authors: F
authors: Herbst
authors: Chair of Macromolecular Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle 06120, Germany.
authors: Wolfgang H
authors: WH
authors: Binder
authors: Experimental Polymer Physics, Institute of Physics, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle 06120, Germany.
authors: Thomas
authors: T
authors: Thurn-Albrecht
mesh_terms: D001463:Barbiturates / Q000737:chemistry; D017711:Nonlinear Dynamics; D011090:Polyenes / Q000737:chemistry; D011108:Polymers / Q000737:chemistry*; D012212:Rheology; D053838:Scattering, Small Angle; D013997:Time Factors
chemical_list: D001463:Barbiturates; D011090:Polyenes; D011108:Polymers; C008967:polyisobutylene; C032232:barbituric acid