Room Temperature Dynamic Polymers Based on Diels–Alder Chemistry

AbstractPolymer, heal thyself! Dynamic polymers formed by a reversible Diels–Alder reaction were formed and studied by using neutron scattering at room temperature. They were used to obtain thin films that displayed self‐healing at room temperature (see figure).magnified imageDynamers based on reversible Diels–Alder chemistry have been obtained and shown to undergo dynamic exchange at room temperature. Their study in solution by small‐angle neutron scattering indicated the formation of long and highly flexible chains. Polydispersed molecules gave Tg values below room temperature, permitting the generation of a dynamic elastomer upon introduction of a dynamic cross‐linking agent. The use of a system with a low equilibrium constant gives access to materials with interesting self‐healing properties.