Phase-locked constructing dynamic supramolecular ionic conductive elastomers with superior toughness, autonomous self-healing and recyclability

Stretchable ionic conductors are considerable to be the most attractive candidate for next-generation flexible ionotronic devices. Nevertheless, high ionic conductivity, excellent mechanical properties, good self-healing capacity and recyclability are necessary but can be rarely satisfied in one material. Herein, we demonstrate a novel ionic conductor design, dynamic supramolecular ionic conductive elastomers (DSICE), via “phase-locked” strategy, wherein “locking soft phase” polyether backbone conducts lithium-ion (Li+) transport and the combination of dynamic disulfide metathesis and stronger supramolecular quadruple hydrogen bonds in the hard domains contributes to the self-healing capacity and mechanical versatility. The dual-phase design performs its own functions and the conflict among ionic conductivity, self-healing capability, and mechanical compatibility can be thus defeated. The well-designed DSICE exhibits high ionic conductivity (3.77×10−3 S m−1 at 30°C), high transparency (92.3%), superior stretchability (2615.17% elongation), strength (27.83 MPa) and toughness (164.36 MJ m−3), excellent self-healing capability (~99% at room temperature) and favorable recyclability. This work provides a new strategy for designing the advanced ionic conductors and offers promise for flexible iontronic devices or solid-state batteries.

Electroplating and Ablative Laser Structuring of Elastomer Composites for Stretchable Multi-Layer and Multi-Material Electronic and Sensor Systems

In this work we present the concept of electroplated conductive elastomers and ablative multi-layer and multi-material laser-assisted manufacturing to enable a largely automated, computer-aided manufacturing process of stretchable electronics and sensors. Therefore, the layers (conductive and non-conductive elastomers as well as metal layers for contacting) are first coated over the entire surface (doctor blade coating and electroplating) and then selectively removed with a CO2 or a fiber laser. These steps are repeated several times to achieve a multi-layer-structured design. Is it not only possible to adjust and improve the work previously carried out manually, but also completely new concepts such as fine through-plating between the layers to enable much more compact structures become possible. In addition, metallized areas allow the direct soldering of electronic components and thus a direct connection between conventional and stretchable electronics. As an exemplary application, we have used the process for manufacturing a thin and surface solderable pressure sensor with a silicone foam dielectric and a stretchable circuit board.

Polymerizable deep eutectic solvents-based mechanically strong and ultra-stretchable conductive elastomers for detecting human motions

Conductive elastomers (CEs)with strong mechanical properties have been fabricated and used in flexible electronics. However, the development of CEs with both super-high mechanical strength and extreme stretchability remains challenging. This...

Mechanical Tough yet Self-Healing Transparent Conductive Elastomers through Synergic Dual Cross-Linking Strategy

Simultaneous achieving transparency, high mechanical strength and self-healing in conductive elastomers with simple and green features is a challenge. Here we develop a novel strategy for a tough yet self-healing...

Facile Solvent-Free Synthesis of Multifunctional and Recyclable Ionic Conductive Elastomers from Small Biomass Molecules for Green Wearable Electronics

The emergence of ionic conductive elastomers (ICE) is significant for various electric applications. However, existing ICEs mainly originate from tedious preparations, nonrenewable starting materials, suffer from limited functions, and especially...