Work

A conformal self-healing organogel with synergistic supramolecular crosslinking

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Through molecular design, this study developed a conformal self-healing organogel (CSHO) via molecular design. Utilizing acryloylmorpholine (ACMO) and hydroxyethyl acrylamide (HEAA) as monomers, tributyl citrate (TBC) as the solvent, and lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (LiTFSI) as an electrolyte salt, the organogel was polymerized by UV curing. A dual supramolecular network of hydrogen and lithium bonds provided excellent mechanical strength without chemical crosslinkers, while also enabling self-healing. TBC enhanced flexibility and established continuous ion channels, boosting ionic conductivity. The CSHO exhibited excellent conformability to complex surfaces, replicating fine textures, and was recyclable through a water-based process. Mechanical sensing tests showed that the CSHO could respond sensitively and in real time to pressing and stretching. This work presents a strategy for multifunctional ionic conductors, advancing flexible sensors and wearable devices.

Source: iScience

DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2025.113870

Authors: Yiyang Gao, Qihao Jiang, Jing Chen, Yanming Liu

Institutions: Xidian University, National University of Singapore

Language: English

Topic: Polymer composites and self-healing

Subfield: Polymers and Plastics

Field: Materials Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,240

Funders: China Postdoctoral Science Foundation, Natural Science Basic Research Program of Shaanxi Province