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Zhang M, Zhao L, Tian F, Zhao X, Zhang Y, Yang X, Huang W, Yu R. Bionic Artificial Skin Based on Self-Healable Ionogel Composites with Tailored Mechanics and Robust Interfaces. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024:e2405776. [PMID: 38966888 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202405776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2024] [Revised: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024]
Abstract
Bionic artificial skin which imitates the features and functions of human skin, has broad applications in wearable human-machine interfaces. However, equipping artificial materials with skin-like mechanical properties, self-healing ability, and high sensitivity remains challenging. Here, inspired by the structure of human skin, an artificial skin based on ionogel composites with tailored mechanical properties and robust interface is prepared. Combining finite element analysis and direct ink writing (DIW) 3D printing technology, an ionogel composite with a rigid skeleton and an ionogel matrix is precisely designed and fabricated, realizing the mechanical anisotropy and nonlinear mechanical response that accurately mimic human skin. Robust interface is created through co-curing of the skeleton and matrix resins, significantly enhancing the stability of the composite. The realization of self-healing ability and resistance to crack growth further ensure the remarkable durability of the artificial skin for sensing application. In summary, the bionic artificial skin mimics the characteristics of human skin, including mechanical anisotropy, nonlinear mechanical response, self-healing capability, durability and high sensitivity when applied as flexible sensors. These strategies provide strong support for the fabrication of tissue-like materials with adaptive mechanical behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manwen Zhang
- Key laboratory of science and technology on high-tech polymer materials, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, P. R. China
- School of Chemical Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 101408, P. R. China
| | - Lingyu Zhao
- Key laboratory of science and technology on high-tech polymer materials, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, P. R. China
- School of Chemical Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 101408, P. R. China
| | - Feng Tian
- Key laboratory of science and technology on high-tech polymer materials, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, P. R. China
- School of Chemical Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 101408, P. R. China
| | - Xiaojuan Zhao
- Key laboratory of science and technology on high-tech polymer materials, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, P. R. China
- School of Chemical Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 101408, P. R. China
| | - Ying Zhang
- Key laboratory of science and technology on high-tech polymer materials, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, P. R. China
- School of Chemical Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 101408, P. R. China
| | - Xin Yang
- Key laboratory of science and technology on high-tech polymer materials, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, P. R. China
- School of Chemical Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 101408, P. R. China
| | - Wei Huang
- Key laboratory of science and technology on high-tech polymer materials, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, P. R. China
- School of Chemical Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 101408, P. R. China
| | - Ran Yu
- Key laboratory of science and technology on high-tech polymer materials, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, P. R. China
- School of Chemical Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 101408, P. R. China
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2
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Yao Y, Wei Y, Fan Y, Fu E. Electron irradiation enhanced wear resistance and hardness of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). SOFT MATTER 2024; 20:5105-5112. [PMID: 38894602 DOI: 10.1039/d4sm00359d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
The surface of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) bulk materials was modified by irradiation at high temperatures using a 1.2 MeV electron beam. The mass wear rate was decreased from 2.5 × 10-6 g N-1 m-1 to 0.08 × 10-6 g N-1 m-1, and the hardness was increased from 33.2 MPa to 93.9 MPa. The yield strength was increased from 12.1 MPa to 25.8 MPa and Young's modulus was enhanced from 101 MPa to 261 MPa. The use of electron beam irradiation on PTFE at high temperature is an effective modification method to significantly improve its wear resistance and hardness, and increase the elastic response range of PTFE. The chemical reaction induced by electron irradiation at high temperature changes the molecular structure of the PTFE bulk material from highly linear to a network, thus improving the surface mechanical properties of PTFE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuliang Yao
- State Key Laboratory of Nuclear Physics and Technology, Department of Technical Physics, School of Physics, Peking University, Beijing 100871, PR China.
| | - Yi Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Nuclear Physics and Technology, Department of Technical Physics, School of Physics, Peking University, Beijing 100871, PR China.
| | - Yong Fan
- State Key Laboratory of Nuclear Physics and Technology, Department of Technical Physics, School of Physics, Peking University, Beijing 100871, PR China.
| | - Engang Fu
- State Key Laboratory of Nuclear Physics and Technology, Department of Technical Physics, School of Physics, Peking University, Beijing 100871, PR China.
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3
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Qin J, Wang Y, Wang T, Wang N, Xu W, Cheng L, Yu W, Yan X, Gao L, Zheng B, Wu B. Anion-Coordination Foldamer-Based Polymer Network: from Molecular Spring to Elastomer. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2024; 63:e202400989. [PMID: 38623921 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202400989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2024] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
Foldamer is a scaled-down version of coil spring, which can absorb and release energy by conformational change. Here, polymer networks with high density of molecular springs were developed by employing anion-coordination-based foldamers as the monomer. The coiling of the foldamer is controlled by oligo(urea) ligands coordinating to chloride ions; subsequently, the folding and unfolding of foldamer conformations endow the polymer network with excellent energy dissipation and toughness. The mechanical performance of the corresponding polymer networks shows a dramatic increase from P-L2UCl (non-folding), to P-L4UCl (a full turn), and then to P-L6UCl (1.5 turns), in terms of strength (2.62 MPa; 14.26 MPa; 22.93 MPa), elongation at break (70 %; 325 %; 352 %), Young's modulus (2.69 MPa; 63.61 MPa; 141.50 MPa), and toughness (1.12 MJ/m3; 21.39 MJ/m3; 49.62 MJ/m3), respectively, which is also better than those without anion centers and the non-foldamer based counterparts. Moreover, P-L6UCl shows enhanced strength and toughness than most of the molecular-spring based polymer networks. Thus, an effective strategy for designing high-performance anion-coordination-based materials is presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiangping Qin
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Natural Functional Molecule of the Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Northwest University, 710069, Xi'an, P. R. China
| | - Yongming Wang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 200240, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Tian Wang
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Natural Functional Molecule of the Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Northwest University, 710069, Xi'an, P. R. China
| | - Na Wang
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Natural Functional Molecule of the Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Northwest University, 710069, Xi'an, P. R. China
| | - Wenhua Xu
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Natural Functional Molecule of the Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Northwest University, 710069, Xi'an, P. R. China
| | - Lin Cheng
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 200240, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Wei Yu
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 200240, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Xuzhou Yan
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 200240, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Lingyan Gao
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Natural Functional Molecule of the Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Northwest University, 710069, Xi'an, P. R. China
| | - Bo Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Natural Functional Molecule of the Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Northwest University, 710069, Xi'an, P. R. China
| | - Biao Wu
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Natural Functional Molecule of the Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Northwest University, 710069, Xi'an, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Medicinal Molecule Science and Pharmaceutics Engineering, Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, 100081, Beijing, P. R. China
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4
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Ohnsorg ML, Mash KM, Khang A, Rao VV, Kirkpatrick BE, Bera K, Anseth KS. Nonlinear Elastic Bottlebrush Polymer Hydrogels Modulate Actomyosin Mediated Protrusion Formation in Mesenchymal Stromal Cells. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2403198. [PMID: 38655776 PMCID: PMC11239315 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202403198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2024] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
The nonlinear elasticity of many tissue-specific extracellular matrices is difficult to recapitulate without the use of fibrous architectures, which couple strain-stiffening with stress relaxation. Herein, bottlebrush polymers are synthesized and crosslinked to form poly(ethylene glycol)-based hydrogels and used to study how strain-stiffening behavior affects human mesenchymal stromal cells (hMSCs). By tailoring the bottlebrush polymer length, the critical stress associated with the onset of network stiffening is systematically varied, and a unique protrusion-rich hMSC morphology emerges only at critical stresses within a biologically accessible stress regime. Local cell-matrix interactions are quantified using 3D traction force microscopy and small molecule inhibitors are used to identify cellular machinery that plays a critical role in hMSC mechanosensing of the engineered, strain-stiffening microenvironment. Collectively, this study demonstrates how covalently crosslinked bottlebrush polymer hydrogels can recapitulate strain-stiffening biomechanical cues at biologically relevant stresses and be used to probe how nonlinear elastic matrix properties regulate cellular processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica L. Ohnsorg
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO 80308, USA
- BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO 80308, USA
| | - Kayla M. Mash
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO 80308, USA
| | - Alex Khang
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO 80308, USA
- BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO 80308, USA
| | - Varsha V. Rao
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO 80308, USA
- BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO 80308, USA
| | - Bruce E. Kirkpatrick
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO 80308, USA
- BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO 80308, USA
- Medical Scientist Training Program, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Kaustav Bera
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO 80308, USA
- BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO 80308, USA
| | - Kristi S. Anseth
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO 80308, USA
- BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO 80308, USA
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5
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Leo CM, Jang J, Corey EJ, Neary WJ, Bowman JI, Kennemur JG. Comparison of Polypentenamer and Polynorbornene Bottlebrushes in Dilute Solution. ACS POLYMERS AU 2024; 4:235-246. [PMID: 38882033 PMCID: PMC11177302 DOI: 10.1021/acspolymersau.3c00052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
Bottlebrush (BB) polymers were synthesized via grafting-from-atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) of styrene on polypentenamer and polynorbornene macroinitiators with matched grafting density (n g = 4) and backbone degrees of polymerization (122 ≥ N bb ≥ 61) to produce a comparative study on their respective dilute solution properties as a function of increasing side chain degree of polymerization (116 ≥ N sc ≥ 5). The grafting-from technique produced near quantitative grafting efficiency and narrow dispersity N sc as evidenced by spectroscopic analysis and ring closing metathesis depolymerization of the polypentenamer BBs. The versatility of this synthetic approach permitted a comprehensive survey of power law expressions that arise from monitoring intrinsic viscosity, hydrodynamic radius, and radius of gyration as a function of increasing the molar mass of the BBs by increasing N sc. These values were compared to a series of linear (nongrafted, N sc = 0) macroinitiators in addition to linear grafts. This unique study allowed elucidation of the onset of bottlebrush behavior for two different types of bottlebrush backbones with identical grafting density but inherently different flexibility. In addition, grafting-from ATRP of methyl acrylate on a polypentenamer macroinitiator allowed the observation of the effects of graft chemistry in comparison to polystyrene. Differences in the observed scaling relationships in dilute solution as a function of each of these synthetic variants are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Courtney M Leo
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida 32303, United States
| | - Jaehoon Jang
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida 32303, United States
| | - Ethan J Corey
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida 32303, United States
| | - William J Neary
- Department of Chemistry, University of California at Riverside, Riverside, California 92521, United States
| | - Jared I Bowman
- George and Josephine Butler Polymer Research Laboratory, Center for Macromolecular Science & Engineering, Department of Chemistry, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611, United States
| | - Justin G Kennemur
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida 32303, United States
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6
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Wang X, Li K, Yuan Y, Zhang N, Zou Z, Wang Y, Yan S, Li X, Zhao P, Li Q. Nonlinear Elasticity of Blood Vessels and Vascular Grafts. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2024; 10:3631-3654. [PMID: 38815169 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.4c00326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
The transplantation of vascular grafts has emerged as a prevailing approach to address vascular disorders. However, the development of small-diameter vascular grafts is still in progress, as they serve in a more complicated mechanical environment than their counterparts with larger diameters. The biocompatibility and functional characteristics of small-diameter vascular grafts have been well developed; however, mismatch in mechanical properties between the vascular grafts and native arteries has not been accomplished, which might facilitate the long-term patency of small-diameter vascular grafts. From a point of view in mechanics, mimicking the nonlinear elastic mechanical behavior exhibited by natural blood vessels might be the state-of-the-art in designing vascular grafts. This review centers on elucidating the nonlinear elastic behavior of natural blood vessels and vascular grafts. The biological functionality and limitations associated with as-reported vascular grafts are meticulously reviewed and the future trajectory for fabricating biomimetic small-diameter grafts is discussed. This review might provide a different insight from the traditional design and fabrication of artificial vascular grafts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaofeng Wang
- School of Mechanics and Safety Engineering, National Center for International Research of Micro-nano Molding Technology, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
- The State Key Laboratory of Fluid Power and Mechatronic Systems, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
| | - Kecheng Li
- School of Mechanics and Safety Engineering, National Center for International Research of Micro-nano Molding Technology, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Yuan Yuan
- School of Mechanics and Safety Engineering, National Center for International Research of Micro-nano Molding Technology, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Ning Zhang
- School of Mechanics and Safety Engineering, National Center for International Research of Micro-nano Molding Technology, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Zifan Zou
- School of Mechanics and Safety Engineering, National Center for International Research of Micro-nano Molding Technology, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Yun Wang
- School of Mechanics and Safety Engineering, National Center for International Research of Micro-nano Molding Technology, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Shujie Yan
- School of Mechanics and Safety Engineering, National Center for International Research of Micro-nano Molding Technology, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Xiaomeng Li
- School of Mechanics and Safety Engineering, National Center for International Research of Micro-nano Molding Technology, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Peng Zhao
- The State Key Laboratory of Fluid Power and Mechatronic Systems, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
| | - Qian Li
- School of Mechanics and Safety Engineering, National Center for International Research of Micro-nano Molding Technology, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
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7
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Tang J, Liang H, Ren A, Ma L, Hao W, Yao Y, Zheng L, Li H, Li Q. Mechanical Performance of Copper-Nanocluster-Polymer Nanolattices. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2400080. [PMID: 38553432 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202400080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
A type of copper-nanocluster-polymer composites is reported and showcased that their 3D nanolattices exhibit a superior combination of high strength, toughness, deformability, resilience, and damage-tolerance. Notably, the strength and toughness of ultralight copper-nanocluster-polymer nanolattices in some cases surpass current best performers, including alumina, nickel, and other ceramic or metallic lattices at low densities. Additionally, copper-nanocluster-polymer nanolattices are super-resilient, crack-resistant, and one-step printed under ambient condition which can be easily integrated into sophisticated microsystems as highly effective internal protectors. The findings suggest that, unlike traditional nanocomposites, the laser-induced interface and the high fraction of ultrasmall Cu15 nanoclusters as crosslinking junctions contribute to the marked nonlinear elasticity of copper-nanocluster-polymer network, which synergizes with the lattice-topology effect and culminates in the exceptional mechanical performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Tang
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Macromolecular Synthesis and Functionalization, Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China
| | - Heyi Liang
- Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | - An Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Fluid Power and Mechatronic Systems, School of Mechanical Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China
| | - Liang Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Fluid Power and Mechatronic Systems, School of Mechanical Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China
| | - Wei Hao
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Macromolecular Synthesis and Functionalization, Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China
| | - Yuqing Yao
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Macromolecular Synthesis and Functionalization, Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China
| | - Letian Zheng
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Macromolecular Synthesis and Functionalization, Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China
| | - Hanying Li
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Macromolecular Synthesis and Functionalization, Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China
| | - Qi Li
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Macromolecular Synthesis and Functionalization, Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China
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8
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Clarke BR, Witt CL, Ilton M, Crosby AJ, Watkins JJ, Tew GN. Bottlebrush Networks: A Primer for Advanced Architectures. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2024; 63:e202318220. [PMID: 38588310 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202318220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
Bottlebrush networks (BBNs) are an exciting new class of materials with interesting physical properties derived from their unique architecture. While great strides have been made in our fundamental understanding of bottlebrush polymers and networks, an interdisciplinary approach is necessary for the field to accelerate advancements. This review aims to act as a primer to BBN chemistry and physics for both new and current members of the community. In addition to providing an overview of contemporary BBN synthetic methods, we developed a workflow and desktop application (LengthScale), enabling bottlebrush physics to be more approachable. We conclude by addressing several topical issues and asking a series of pointed questions to stimulate conversation within the community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brandon R Clarke
- University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, Massachusetts, 01003, United States
| | - Connor L Witt
- University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, Massachusetts, 01003, United States
| | - Mark Ilton
- Department of Physics, Harvey Mudd College, Claremont, CA 91711, United States
| | - Alfred J Crosby
- University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, Massachusetts, 01003, United States
| | - James J Watkins
- University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, Massachusetts, 01003, United States
| | - Gregory N Tew
- University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, Massachusetts, 01003, United States
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9
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Adeli Y, Raman Venkatesan T, Mezzenga R, Nüesch FA, Opris DM. Synthesis of Bottlebrush Polymers with Spontaneous Self-Assembly for Dielectric Generators. ACS APPLIED POLYMER MATERIALS 2024; 6:4999-5010. [PMID: 38752017 PMCID: PMC11091855 DOI: 10.1021/acsapm.3c03053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
Cross-linked bottlebrush polymers received significant attention as dielectrics in transducers due to their unique softness and strain stiffening caused by their structure. Despite some progress, there is still a great challenge in increasing their dielectric permittivity beyond 3.5 and cross-linking them to defect-free ultrathin films efficiently under ambient conditions. Here, we report the synthesis of bottlebrush copolymers based on ring-opening metathesis polymerization (ROMP) starting from a 5-norbornene-2-carbonitrile and a norbornene modified with a poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) chain as a macromonomer. The resulting copolymer was subjected to a postpolymerization modification, whereby the double bonds were used both for functionalization with thiopropionitrile and subsequent cross-linking via a thiol-ene reaction. The solutions of both bottlebrush copolymers formed free-standing elastic films by simple casting. DMA and broadband impedance spectroscopy revealed two glass transition temperatures uncommon for a random copolymer. The self-segregation of the nonpolar PDMS chains and the polynorbornane backbone is responsible for this and is supported by the interfacial polarization observed in broadband impedance spectroscopy and the scattering peaks observed in small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS). Additionally, the modified bottlebrush copolymer was cross-linked to an elastomer that exhibits increased dielectric permittivity and good mechanical properties with significant strain stiffening, an attractive property of dielectric elastomer generators. It has a relative permittivity of 5.24, strain at break of 290%, elastic modulus at 10% strain of 380 kPa, a breakdown field of 62 V μm-1, and a small actuation of 5% at high electric fields of 48.5 V μm-1. All of these characteristics are attractive for dielectric elastomer generator applications. The current work is a milestone in designing functional elastomers based on bottlebrush polymers for transducer applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeerlan Adeli
- Laboratory
for Functional Polymers, Swiss Federal Laboratories
for Materials Science and Technology Empa, Ueberlandstr. 129, CH-8600 Dübendorf, Switzerland
- Institute
of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, Ecole
Polytechnique Federale de Lausanne, EPFL, Station 6, CH-1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Thulasinath Raman Venkatesan
- Laboratory
for Functional Polymers, Swiss Federal Laboratories
for Materials Science and Technology Empa, Ueberlandstr. 129, CH-8600 Dübendorf, Switzerland
| | - Raffaele Mezzenga
- Department
of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zürich,
Laboratory of Food and Soft Materials, Schmelzbergstrasse 9, 8092 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Frank A. Nüesch
- Laboratory
for Functional Polymers, Swiss Federal Laboratories
for Materials Science and Technology Empa, Ueberlandstr. 129, CH-8600 Dübendorf, Switzerland
- Institute
of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, Ecole
Polytechnique Federale de Lausanne, EPFL, Station 6, CH-1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Dorina M. Opris
- Laboratory
for Functional Polymers, Swiss Federal Laboratories
for Materials Science and Technology Empa, Ueberlandstr. 129, CH-8600 Dübendorf, Switzerland
- Department
of Materials, ETH Zurich, Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 5, 8093 Zurich, Switzerland
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10
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Li J, Zheng Z, Ma Y, Dong Z, Li MH, Hu J. Mechanically Ultra-Robust Fluorescent Elastomer for Elaborating Auxetic Composite. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024:e2402130. [PMID: 38678509 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202402130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2024] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
Fluorescent elastomers are predominantly fabricated through doping fluorescent components or conjugating chromophores into polymer networks, which often involves detrimental effects on mechanical performance and also makes large-scale production difficult. Inspired by the heteroatom-rich microphase separation structures assisted by intensive hydrogen bonds in natural organisms, an ultra-robust fluorescent polyurethane elastomer is reported, which features a remarkable fracture strength of 87.2 MPa with an elongation of 1797%, exceptional toughness of 678.4 MJ m-3 and intrinsic cyan fluorescence at 445 nm. Moreover, the reversible fluorescence variation with temperature could in situ reveal the microphase separation of the elastomer in real time. By taking advantage of mechanical properties, intrinsic fluorescence and hydrogen bonds-promoted interfacial bonding ability, this fluorescent elastomer can be utilized as an auxetic skeleton for the elaboration of an integrated auxetic composite. Compared with the auxetic skeleton alone, the integrated composite shows an improved mechanical performance while maintaining auxetic deformation in a large strain below 185%, and its auxetic process can be visually detected under ultraviolet light by the fluorescence of the auxetic skeleton. The concept of introducing hydrogen-bonded heteroatom-rich microphase separation structures into polymer networks in this work provides a promising approach to developing fluorescent elastomers with exceptional mechanical properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiawei Li
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, North Third Ring Road 15, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Zhiran Zheng
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, North Third Ring Road 15, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Yaning Ma
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, North Third Ring Road 15, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Zhaoxing Dong
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, North Third Ring Road 15, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Min-Hui Li
- Chimie ParisTech, PSL University, CNRS, Institut de Recherche de Chimie Paris, 11 rue Pierre et Marie Curie, Paris, 75005, France
| | - Jun Hu
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, North Third Ring Road 15, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100029, China
- State Key Laboratory of Polymer Physics and Chemistry, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Renmin Street 5625, Chaoyang District, Changchun, 130022, China
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11
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Jia B, Huang H, Dong Z, Ren X, Lu Y, Wang W, Zhou S, Zhao X, Guo B. Degradable biomedical elastomers: paving the future of tissue repair and regenerative medicine. Chem Soc Rev 2024; 53:4086-4153. [PMID: 38465517 DOI: 10.1039/d3cs00923h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
Degradable biomedical elastomers (DBE), characterized by controlled biodegradability, excellent biocompatibility, tailored elasticity, and favorable network design and processability, have become indispensable in tissue repair. This review critically examines the recent advances of biodegradable elastomers for tissue repair, focusing mainly on degradation mechanisms and evaluation, synthesis and crosslinking methods, microstructure design, processing techniques, and tissue repair applications. The review explores the material composition and cross-linking methods of elastomers used in tissue repair, addressing chemistry-related challenges and structural design considerations. In addition, this review focuses on the processing methods of two- and three-dimensional structures of elastomers, and systematically discusses the contribution of processing methods such as solvent casting, electrostatic spinning, and three-/four-dimensional printing of DBE. Furthermore, we describe recent advances in tissue repair using DBE, and include advances achieved in regenerating different tissues, including nerves, tendons, muscle, cardiac, and bone, highlighting their efficacy and versatility. The review concludes by discussing the current challenges in material selection, biodegradation, bioactivation, and manufacturing in tissue repair, and suggests future research directions. This concise yet comprehensive analysis aims to provide valuable insights and technical guidance for advances in DBE for tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben Jia
- School of Civil Aviation, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, 710072, China
| | - Heyuan Huang
- School of Aeronautics, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, 710072, China.
| | - Zhicheng Dong
- School of Civil Aviation, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, 710072, China
| | - Xiaoyang Ren
- School of Aeronautics, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, 710072, China.
| | - Yanyan Lu
- School of Aeronautics, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, 710072, China.
| | - Wenzhi Wang
- School of Aeronautics, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, 710072, China.
| | - Shaowen Zhou
- Department of Periodontology, College of Stomatology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710049, China
| | - Xin Zhao
- State Key Laboratory for Mechanical Behavior of Materials, and Frontier Institute of Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710049, China.
| | - Baolin Guo
- State Key Laboratory for Mechanical Behavior of Materials, and Frontier Institute of Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710049, China.
- Key Laboratory of Shaanxi Province for Craniofacial Precision Medicine Research, College of Stomatology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, China
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12
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Sánchez-Leija R, Mysona JA, de Pablo JJ, Nealey PF. Phase Behavior and Conformational Asymmetry near the Comb-to-Bottlebrush Transition in Linear-Brush Block Copolymers. Macromolecules 2024; 57:2019-2029. [PMID: 38495384 PMCID: PMC10938885 DOI: 10.1021/acs.macromol.3c02180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
This study explores how conformational asymmetry influences the bulk phase behavior of linear-brush block copolymers. We synthesized 60 diblock copolymers composed of poly(trifluoroethyl methacrylate) as the linear block and poly[oligo(ethylene glycol) methyl ether methacrylate] as the brush block, varying the molecular weight, composition, and side-chain length to introduce different degrees of conformational asymmetry. Using small-angle X-ray scattering, we determined the morphology and phase diagrams for three different side-chain length systems, mainly observing lamellar and cylindrical phases. Increasing the side-chain length of the brush block from three to nine ethylene oxide units introduces sufficient asymmetry between the blocks to alter the phase behavior, shifting the lamellar-to-cylindrical transitions toward lower brush block compositions and transitioning the brush block from the dense comb-like regime to the bottlebrush regime. Coarse-grained simulations support our experimental observations and provide a mapping between the composition and conformational asymmetry. A comparison of our findings to strong stretching theory across multiple phase boundary predictions confirms the transition between the dense comb-like regime and the bottlebrush regime.
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Affiliation(s)
- Regina
J. Sánchez-Leija
- Materials
Science Division, Argonne National Laboratory, 9700 S Cass Avenue, Lemont, Illinois 60439, United States
- Pritzker
School of Molecular Engineering, the University
of Chicago, 5640 S Ellis Avenue, Chicago, Illinois 60637, United States
| | - Joshua A. Mysona
- Materials
Science Division, Argonne National Laboratory, 9700 S Cass Avenue, Lemont, Illinois 60439, United States
- Pritzker
School of Molecular Engineering, the University
of Chicago, 5640 S Ellis Avenue, Chicago, Illinois 60637, United States
| | - Juan J. de Pablo
- Materials
Science Division, Argonne National Laboratory, 9700 S Cass Avenue, Lemont, Illinois 60439, United States
- Pritzker
School of Molecular Engineering, the University
of Chicago, 5640 S Ellis Avenue, Chicago, Illinois 60637, United States
| | - Paul F. Nealey
- Materials
Science Division, Argonne National Laboratory, 9700 S Cass Avenue, Lemont, Illinois 60439, United States
- Pritzker
School of Molecular Engineering, the University
of Chicago, 5640 S Ellis Avenue, Chicago, Illinois 60637, United States
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13
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Hui Z, Zhang Z, Wang Y, Zhang R, Liu X, Jiang M, Ju F, Hou W, Xia Z, Wang D, Wang P, Pei Y, Yan R, Zhang Y, Chen Q, Huang W, Sun G. Gradiently Foaming Ultrasoft Hydrogel with Stop Holes for Highly Deformable, Crack-Resistant and Sensitive Conformal Human-Machine Interfaces. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024:e2314163. [PMID: 38423019 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202314163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Hydrogels are considered as promising materials for human-machine interfaces (HMIs) owing to their merits of tailorable mechanical and electrical properties; nevertheless, it remains challenging to simultaneously achieve ultrasoftness, good mechanical robustness and high sensitivity, which are the pre-requisite requirements for wearable sensing applications. Herein, for the first time, this work proposes a universal phase-transition-induced bubbling strategy to fabricate ultrasoft gradient foam-shaped hydrogels (FSHs) with stop holes for high deformability, crack-resistance and sensitive conformal HMIs. As a typical system, the FSH based on polyacrylamide/sodium alginate system shows an ultralow Young's modulus (1.68 kPa), increased sustainable strain (1411%), enhanced fracture toughness (915.6 J m-2 ), improved tensile sensitivity (21.77), and compressive sensitivity (65.23 kPa-1 ). The FSHs are used for precisely acquiring and identifying gesture commands of the operator to remotely control a surgical robot for endoscopy and an electric ship in a first-person perspective for cruising, feeding crabs and monitoring the environmental change in real-time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zengyu Hui
- Frontiers Science Center for Flexible Electronics, Xi'an Institute of Flexible Electronics (IFE) and Xi'an Institute of Biomedical Materials & Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University, 127 West Youyi Road, Xi'an, 710072, P. R. China
- Institute of Advanced Materials (IAM) & Key Laboratory of Flexible Electronics (KLoFE), Jiangsu National Synergetic Innovation Center for Advanced Materials (SICAM), Nanjing Tech University (Nanjing Tech), 30 South Puzhu Road, Nanjing, 211816, P. R. China
| | - Zhao Zhang
- College of Intelligent Science and Control Engineering, Jinling Institute of Technology, Nanjing, 211199, P. R. China
| | - Yurong Wang
- Institute of Advanced Materials (IAM) & Key Laboratory of Flexible Electronics (KLoFE), Jiangsu National Synergetic Innovation Center for Advanced Materials (SICAM), Nanjing Tech University (Nanjing Tech), 30 South Puzhu Road, Nanjing, 211816, P. R. China
| | - Runrun Zhang
- College of Intelligent Science and Control Engineering, Jinling Institute of Technology, Nanjing, 211199, P. R. China
| | - Xin Liu
- College of Intelligent Science and Control Engineering, Jinling Institute of Technology, Nanjing, 211199, P. R. China
| | - Mingjie Jiang
- School of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Nanjing, 210016, P. R. China
| | - Feng Ju
- School of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Nanjing, 210016, P. R. China
| | - Wenteng Hou
- Institute of Advanced Materials (IAM) & Key Laboratory of Flexible Electronics (KLoFE), Jiangsu National Synergetic Innovation Center for Advanced Materials (SICAM), Nanjing Tech University (Nanjing Tech), 30 South Puzhu Road, Nanjing, 211816, P. R. China
| | - Zhongming Xia
- Institute of Advanced Materials (IAM) & Key Laboratory of Flexible Electronics (KLoFE), Jiangsu National Synergetic Innovation Center for Advanced Materials (SICAM), Nanjing Tech University (Nanjing Tech), 30 South Puzhu Road, Nanjing, 211816, P. R. China
| | - Deya Wang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mechanical Behavior and Design of Materials, Department of Modern Mechanics, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, P. R. China
| | - Pengfei Wang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mechanical Behavior and Design of Materials, Department of Modern Mechanics, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, P. R. China
| | - Yangyang Pei
- Frontiers Science Center for Flexible Electronics, Xi'an Institute of Flexible Electronics (IFE) and Xi'an Institute of Biomedical Materials & Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University, 127 West Youyi Road, Xi'an, 710072, P. R. China
| | - Ren Yan
- Frontiers Science Center for Flexible Electronics, Xi'an Institute of Flexible Electronics (IFE) and Xi'an Institute of Biomedical Materials & Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University, 127 West Youyi Road, Xi'an, 710072, P. R. China
| | - Yan Zhang
- College of Intelligent Science and Control Engineering, Jinling Institute of Technology, Nanjing, 211199, P. R. China
| | - Qiang Chen
- Wenzhou Institute, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wenzhou, 352001, P. R. China
| | - Wei Huang
- Frontiers Science Center for Flexible Electronics, Xi'an Institute of Flexible Electronics (IFE) and Xi'an Institute of Biomedical Materials & Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University, 127 West Youyi Road, Xi'an, 710072, P. R. China
- Institute of Advanced Materials (IAM) & Key Laboratory of Flexible Electronics (KLoFE), Jiangsu National Synergetic Innovation Center for Advanced Materials (SICAM), Nanjing Tech University (Nanjing Tech), 30 South Puzhu Road, Nanjing, 211816, P. R. China
| | - Gengzhi Sun
- Institute of Advanced Materials (IAM) & Key Laboratory of Flexible Electronics (KLoFE), Jiangsu National Synergetic Innovation Center for Advanced Materials (SICAM), Nanjing Tech University (Nanjing Tech), 30 South Puzhu Road, Nanjing, 211816, P. R. China
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14
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Ajvazi E, Bauer F, Strasser P, Brüggemann O, Preuer R, Kracalik M, Hild S, Abbasi M, Graz I, Teasdale I. Inorganic Bottlebrush and Comb Polymers as a Platform for Supersoft, Solvent-Free Elastomers. ACS POLYMERS AU 2024; 4:56-65. [PMID: 38371734 PMCID: PMC10870749 DOI: 10.1021/acspolymersau.3c00043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Due to their unique rheological and mechanical properties, bottlebrush polymers are inimitable components of biological and synthetic systems such as cartilage and ultrasoft elastomers. However, while their rheological properties can be precisely controlled through their macromolecular structures, the current chemical spectrum available is limited to a handful of synthetic polymers with aliphatic carbon backbones. Herein we design and synthesize a series of inorganic bottlebrush polymers based on a unique combination of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) and polyphosphazene (PPz) chemistry. This non-carbon-based platform allows for simple variation of the significant architectural dimensions of bottlebrush-polymer-based elastomers. Grafting PDMS to PPz and vice versa also allows us to further exploit the unique properties of these polymers combined in a single material. These novel hybrid bottlebrush polymers were cured to give supersoft, solvent-free elastomers. We systematically studied the effect of architectural parameters and chemical functionality on their rheological properties. Besides forming supersoft elastomers, the energy dissipation characteristics of the elastomers were observed to be considerably higher than those for PDMS-based elastomers. Hence this work introduces a robust synthetic platform for solvent-free supersoft elastomers with potential applications as biomimetic damping materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edip Ajvazi
- Institute
of Polymer Chemistry, Johannes Kepler University
Linz, Altenberger Straße
69, 4040 Linz, Austria
- Christian
Doppler Laboratory for Soft Structures for Vibration Isolation and
Impact Protection (ADAPT), School of Education, STEM Education, Johannes Kepler University Linz, Altenberger Straße 69, 4040 Linz, Austria
| | - Felix Bauer
- Institute
of Polymer Chemistry, Johannes Kepler University
Linz, Altenberger Straße
69, 4040 Linz, Austria
| | - Paul Strasser
- Institute
of Polymer Chemistry, Johannes Kepler University
Linz, Altenberger Straße
69, 4040 Linz, Austria
| | - Oliver Brüggemann
- Institute
of Polymer Chemistry, Johannes Kepler University
Linz, Altenberger Straße
69, 4040 Linz, Austria
| | - Rene Preuer
- Christian
Doppler Laboratory for Soft Structures for Vibration Isolation and
Impact Protection (ADAPT), School of Education, STEM Education, Johannes Kepler University Linz, Altenberger Straße 69, 4040 Linz, Austria
| | - Milan Kracalik
- Institute
of Polymer Science, Johannes Kepler University
Linz, Altenberger Straße 69, 4040 Linz, Austria
| | - Sabine Hild
- Institute
of Polymer Science, Johannes Kepler University
Linz, Altenberger Straße 69, 4040 Linz, Austria
| | - Mahdi Abbasi
- Borealis
Polyolefine GmbH, Innovation Headquarters, St.-Peter-Straße 25, 4021 Linz, Austria
| | - Ingrid Graz
- Christian
Doppler Laboratory for Soft Structures for Vibration Isolation and
Impact Protection (ADAPT), School of Education, STEM Education, Johannes Kepler University Linz, Altenberger Straße 69, 4040 Linz, Austria
| | - Ian Teasdale
- Institute
of Polymer Chemistry, Johannes Kepler University
Linz, Altenberger Straße
69, 4040 Linz, Austria
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15
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Chan JM, Kordon AC, Wang M. Investigating the effects of the local environment on bottlebrush conformations using super-resolution microscopy. NANOSCALE 2024; 16:2409-2418. [PMID: 38230506 DOI: 10.1039/d3nr05000a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
The single-chain physics of bottlebrush polymers plays a key role in their macroscopic properties. Although efforts have been made to understand the behavior of single isolated bottlebrushes, studies on their behavior in crowded, application-relevant environments have been insufficient due to limitations in characterization techniques. Here, we use single-molecule localization microscopy (SMLM) to study the conformations of individual bottlebrush polymers by direct imaging. Our previous work focused on bottlebrushes in a matrix of linear polymers, where our observations suggested that their behavior was largely influenced by an entropic incompatibility between the bottlebrush side chains and the linear matrix. Instead, here we focus on systems where this effect is reduced: in solvent-swollen polymer materials and in systems entirely composed of bottlebrushes. We measure chain conformations and rigidity using persistence length (lp) as side chain molecular weight (Msc) is varied. Compared to a system of linear polymers, we observe greater flexibility of the backbone in both systems. For bottlebrushes in bottlebrush matrices, we additionally observed a scaling relationship between lp and Msc that more closely follows theoretical predictions. For the more flexible chains in both systems, we reach the edge of our resolution limit and cannot visualize the entire contour of every chain. We bypass this limitation by discussing the aspect ratios of the features within the super-resolution images.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan M Chan
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, USA.
| | - Avram C Kordon
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, USA.
| | - Muzhou Wang
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, USA.
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16
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Lackner F, Šurina P, Fink J, Kotzbeck P, Kolb D, Stana J, Grab M, Hagl C, Tsilimparis N, Mohan T, Stana Kleinschek K, Kargl R. 4-Axis 3D-Printed Tubular Biomaterials Imitating the Anisotropic Nanofiber Orientation of Porcine Aortae. Adv Healthc Mater 2024; 13:e2302348. [PMID: 37807640 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202302348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2023] [Revised: 09/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
Many of the peculiar properties of the vasculature are related to the arrangement of anisotropic proteinaceous fibers in vessel walls. Understanding and imitating these arrangements can potentially lead to new therapies for cardiovascular diseases. These can be pre-surgical planning, for which patient-specific ex vivo anatomical models for endograft testing are of interest. Alternatively, therapies can be based on tissue engineering, for which degradable in vitro cell growth substrates are used to culture replacement parts. In both cases, materials are desirable that imitate the biophysical properties of vessels, including their tubular shapes and compliance. This work contributes to these demands by offering methods for the manufacturing of anisotropic 3D-printed nanofibrous tubular structures that have similar biophysical properties as porcine aortae, that are biocompatible, and that allow for controlled nutrient diffusion. Tubes of various sizes with axial, radial, or alternating nanofiber orientation along the blood flow direction are manufactured by a customized method. Blood pressure-resistant, compliant, stable, and cell culture-compatible structures are obtained, that can be degraded in vitro on demand. It is suggested that these healthcare materials can contribute to the next generation of cardiovascular therapies of ex vivo pre-surgical planning or in vitro cell culture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florian Lackner
- Institute for Chemistry and Technology of Biobased System (IBioSys), Graz University of Technology, Stremayrgasse 9, 8010, Graz, Austria
| | - Paola Šurina
- Institute for Chemistry and Technology of Biobased System (IBioSys), Graz University of Technology, Stremayrgasse 9, 8010, Graz, Austria
| | - Julia Fink
- COREMED - Centre of Regenerative and Precision Medicine, JOANNEUM RESEARCH Forschungsgesellschaft mbH, Neue Stiftingtalstraße 2, 8010, Graz, Austria
- Research Unit for Tissue Regeneration, Repair and Reconstruction, Division of Plastic, Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Medical University of Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 29/4, 8036, Graz, Austria
| | - Petra Kotzbeck
- COREMED - Centre of Regenerative and Precision Medicine, JOANNEUM RESEARCH Forschungsgesellschaft mbH, Neue Stiftingtalstraße 2, 8010, Graz, Austria
- Research Unit for Tissue Regeneration, Repair and Reconstruction, Division of Plastic, Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Medical University of Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 29/4, 8036, Graz, Austria
| | - Dagmar Kolb
- Core Unit Ultrastructure Analysis, Medical University Graz, Stiftingtalstraße 6/II, 8010, Graz, Austria
- Gottfried Schatz Research Center for Cell Signaling Metabolism and Aging, Medical University Graz, Stiftingtalstraße 6, 8010, Graz, Austria
| | - Jan Stana
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Ludwig Maximilian University Munich, Marchioninistraße 15, 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - Maximilian Grab
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Ludwig Maximilian University Munich, Marchioninistraße 15, 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - Christian Hagl
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Ludwig Maximilian University Munich, Marchioninistraße 15, 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - Nikolaos Tsilimparis
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Ludwig Maximilian University Munich, Marchioninistraße 15, 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - Tamilselvan Mohan
- Institute for Chemistry and Technology of Biobased System (IBioSys), Graz University of Technology, Stremayrgasse 9, 8010, Graz, Austria
- Laboratory for Characterization and Processing of Polymers, University of Maribor, Smetanova ulica 16, Maribor, 2000, Slovenia
| | - Karin Stana Kleinschek
- Institute for Chemistry and Technology of Biobased System (IBioSys), Graz University of Technology, Stremayrgasse 9, 8010, Graz, Austria
| | - Rupert Kargl
- Institute for Chemistry and Technology of Biobased System (IBioSys), Graz University of Technology, Stremayrgasse 9, 8010, Graz, Austria
- Laboratory for Characterization and Processing of Polymers, University of Maribor, Smetanova ulica 16, Maribor, 2000, Slovenia
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17
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Dobrynin AV, Stroujkova A, Vatankhah-Varnosfaderani M, Sheiko SS. Coarse-Grained Artificial Intelligence for Design of Brush Networks. ACS Macro Lett 2023; 12:1510-1516. [PMID: 37888787 DOI: 10.1021/acsmacrolett.3c00479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
The ability to synthesize elastomeric materials with programmable mechanical properties is vital for advanced soft matter applications. Due to the inherent complexity of hierarchical structure-property correlations in brush-like polymer networks, the application of conventional theory-based, so-called Human Intelligence (HI) approaches becomes increasingly difficult. Herein we developed a design strategy based on synergistic combination of HI and AI tools which allows precise encoding of mechanical properties with three architectural parameters: degrees of polymerization (DP) of network strands, nx, side chains, nsc, backbone spacers between side chains, ng. Implementing a multilayer feedforward artificial neural network (ANN), we took advantage of model-predicted structure-property cross-correlations between coarse-grained system code including chemistry specific characteristics S = [l, v, b] defined by monomer projection length l and excluded volume v, Kuhn length b of bare backbone and side chains, and architecture A = [nsc, ng, nx] of polymer networks and their equilibrium mechanical properties P = [G, β] including the structural shear modulus G and firmness parameter β. The ANN was trained by minimizing the mean-square error with Bayesian regularization to avoid overfitting using a data set of experimental stress-deformation curves of networks with brush-like strands of poly(n-butyl acrylate), poly(isobutylene), and poly(dimethylsiloxane) having structural modulus G < 50 kPa and 0.01 ≤ β ≤ 0.3. The trained ANN predicts network mechanical properties with 95% confidence. The developed ANN was implemented for synthesis of model networks with identical mechanical properties but different chemistries of network strands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrey V Dobrynin
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, United States
| | - Anastasia Stroujkova
- Department of Earth, Marine and Environmental Sciences, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27559, United States
| | | | - Sergei S Sheiko
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, United States
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18
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Okayama Y, Eom T, Czuczola M, Abdilla A, Blankenship JR, Albanese KR, de Alaniz JR, Bates CM, Hawker CJ. Heterotelechelic Silicones: Facile Synthesis and Functionalization Using Silane-Based Initiators. Macromolecules 2023; 56:8806-8812. [PMID: 38024157 PMCID: PMC10653272 DOI: 10.1021/acs.macromol.3c01802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
The synthetic utility of heterotelechelic polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) derivatives is limited due to challenges in preparing materials with high chain-end fidelity. In this study, anionic ring-opening polymerization (AROP) of hexamethylcyclotrisiloxane (D3) monomers using a specifically designed silyl hydride (Si-H)-based initiator provides a versatile approach toward a library of heterotelechelic PDMS polymers. A novel initiator, where the Si-H terminal group is connected to a C atom (H-Si-C) and not an O atom (H-Si-O) as in traditional systems, suppresses intermolecular transfer of the Si-H group, leading to heterotelechelic PDMS derivatives with a high degree of control over chain ends. In situ termination of the D3 propagating chain end with commercially available chlorosilanes (alkyl chlorides, methacrylates, and norbornenes) yields an array of chain-end-functionalized PDMS derivatives. This diversity can be further increased by hydrosilylation with functionalized alkenes (alcohols, esters, and epoxides) to generate a library of heterotelechelic PDMS polymers. Due to the living nature of ring-opening polymerization and efficient initiation, narrow-dispersity (Đ < 1.2) polymers spanning a wide range of molar masses (2-11 kg mol-1) were synthesized. With facile access to α-Si-H and ω-norbornene functionalized PDMS macromonomers (H-PDMS-Nb), the synthesis of well-defined supersoft (G' = 30 kPa) PDMS bottlebrush networks, which are difficult to prepare using established strategies, was demonstrated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoichi Okayama
- Materials
Research Laboratory, University of California, Santa Barbara, California 93106, United States
| | - Taejun Eom
- Materials
Research Laboratory, University of California, Santa Barbara, California 93106, United States
| | - Michael Czuczola
- Department
of Chemistry & Biochemistry, University
of California, Santa Barbara, California 93106, United States
| | - Allison Abdilla
- Department
of Chemistry & Biochemistry, University
of California, Santa Barbara, California 93106, United States
| | - Jacob R. Blankenship
- Materials
Research Laboratory, University of California, Santa Barbara, California 93106, United States
- Department
of Chemistry & Biochemistry, University
of California, Santa Barbara, California 93106, United States
| | - Kaitlin R. Albanese
- Materials
Research Laboratory, University of California, Santa Barbara, California 93106, United States
- Department
of Chemistry & Biochemistry, University
of California, Santa Barbara, California 93106, United States
| | - Javier Read de Alaniz
- Department
of Chemistry & Biochemistry, University
of California, Santa Barbara, California 93106, United States
| | - Christopher M. Bates
- Materials
Research Laboratory, University of California, Santa Barbara, California 93106, United States
- Department
of Chemistry & Biochemistry, University
of California, Santa Barbara, California 93106, United States
- Materials
Department, University of California, Santa Barbara, California 93106, United States
- Department
of Chemical Engineering, University of California, Santa Barbara, California 93106, United States
| | - Craig J. Hawker
- Materials
Research Laboratory, University of California, Santa Barbara, California 93106, United States
- Department
of Chemistry & Biochemistry, University
of California, Santa Barbara, California 93106, United States
- Materials
Department, University of California, Santa Barbara, California 93106, United States
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19
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Clarke BR, Tew GN. Network Constitutional Isomers. Macromolecules 2023; 56:8565-8573. [PMID: 38239340 PMCID: PMC10795480 DOI: 10.1021/acs.macromol.3c01400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
Bottlebrush networks designed to be constitutional isomers of each other were synthesized for the first time. These network constitutional isomers (NCIs) have significantly different mechanical properties depending on their kinetic chain lengths (RK), which are controlled by the monomer-to-initiator ratio. Specifically, the low frequency moduli, yield behavior, elongation at break, and adhesive strength of these NCIs are different at the same cross-link densities. The NCI concept is extended to include RKs' dispersity through the choice of the catalyst. These NCIs highlight the impact of living polymerization chemistry on network formation. The use of living polymerization chemistry to synthesize new networks, including NCIs, is expected to significantly advance the development of next-generation materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brandon R Clarke
- Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, Massachusetts 01003, United States
| | - Gregory N Tew
- Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, Massachusetts 01003, United States
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20
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Asadi V, Dolleman R, van der Gucht J, Kodger TE. 3D printable soft and solvent-free thermoplastic elastomer containing dangling bottlebrush chains. MATERIALS ADVANCES 2023; 4:5535-5545. [PMID: 38013845 PMCID: PMC10642180 DOI: 10.1039/d3ma00335c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
Polymer networks containing bottlebrush chains are emerging materials with exceptionally soft and highly tunable mechanical properties. However, such materials have not been extensively implemented in functional processing techniques such as three-dimensional (3D) printing. Here, we introduce a new design of soft and solvent-free polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)-based thermoplastic elastomer which contains dangling and space-filling bottlebrush chains, featuring a yield stress and a rapid recovery after stress removal; both required for high spatial fidelity 3D printing. The developed material is composed of two copolymers; the main building block is a diblock copolymer with linear polystyrene (PS) block and bottlebrush PDMS block (PS-b-bbPDMS) while the second component is PS-b-PDMS-b-PS triblock, self-assembling to a physical network. This design provides independent tunability of each structural parameter on the molecular level, hence, macroscopic control of the materials' mechanical properties. Multiple self-supportive 3D structures with spanning elements are 3D printed at elevated temperatures using a developed material with a low shear modulus of G' = 3.3 kPa containing 3 : 1 molar ratio of diblock to triblock copolymers without the need for volatile solvent, or post-treatment. This 3D printing compatible design opens new opportunities to utilize the distinctive mechanical properties of bottlebrush materials for applications such as soft tissue scaffolds, sensors, actuators, and soft robots.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vahid Asadi
- Physical Chemistry and Soft Matter, Wageningen University & Research Stippeneng 4 6708 WE Wageningen The Netherlands
| | - Renee Dolleman
- Physical Chemistry and Soft Matter, Wageningen University & Research Stippeneng 4 6708 WE Wageningen The Netherlands
| | - Jasper van der Gucht
- Physical Chemistry and Soft Matter, Wageningen University & Research Stippeneng 4 6708 WE Wageningen The Netherlands
| | - Thomas E Kodger
- Physical Chemistry and Soft Matter, Wageningen University & Research Stippeneng 4 6708 WE Wageningen The Netherlands
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21
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Dobrynin AV, Tian Y, Jacobs M, Nikitina EA, Ivanov DA, Maw M, Vashahi F, Sheiko SS. Forensics of polymer networks. NATURE MATERIALS 2023; 22:1394-1400. [PMID: 37749314 DOI: 10.1038/s41563-023-01663-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
Abstract
Our lives cannot be imagined without polymer networks, which range widely, from synthetic rubber to biological tissues. Their properties-elasticity, strain-stiffening and stretchability-are controlled by a convolution of chemical composition, strand conformation and network topology. Yet, since the discovery of rubber vulcanization by Charles Goodyear in 1839, the internal organization of networks has remained a sealed 'black box'. While many studies show how network properties respond to topology variation, no method currently exists that would allow the decoding of the network structure from its properties. We address this problem by analysing networks' nonlinear responses to deformation to quantify their crosslink density, strand flexibility and fraction of stress-supporting strands. The decoded structural information enables the quality control of network synthesis, comparison of targeted to actual architecture and network classification according to the effectiveness of stress distribution. The developed forensic approach is a vital step in future implementation of artificial intelligence principles for soft matter design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrey V Dobrynin
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
| | - Yuan Tian
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Michael Jacobs
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | | | - Dimitri A Ivanov
- Department of Chemistry, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
- Institut de Sciences des Matériaux de Mulhouse (IS2M), CNRS UMR 7361, Université de Haute-Alsace, Mulhouse, France
| | - Mitchell Maw
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Foad Vashahi
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Sergei S Sheiko
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
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22
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Xu J, Wang X, Li S, Zhang Y, Zhang X, Wang Q, Wang T, Yang Z, Tao L. Mechanically Ultra-Robust Elastomers Integrating Self-Healing and Recycling Properties Enable Information Encryption and Hierarchical Decryption. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2023; 15:41937-41949. [PMID: 37605560 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.3c09133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/23/2023]
Abstract
Developing high-performance elastomers with distinctive features opens up new vistas and exciting possibilities for information encryption but remains a daunting challenge. To surmount this difficulty, an unprecedented synthetic approach, "modular molecular engineering", was proposed to develop tailor-made advanced elastomers. The customized hydrophobic poly(urea-urethane) (HPUU-R) elastomer perfectly integrated ultrahigh tensile strength (∼75.3 MPa), extraordinary toughness (∼292.5 MJ m-3), satisfactory room-temperature healing, high transparency, puncture-, scratch-, and water-resistance; and miraculously, its 0.20 g film could lift objects over 100 000 times its weight without rupture. Intriguingly, we unexpectedly discovered that the elastomers fluoresce brightly at the optimal excitation wavelength attributed to the "clusterization-triggered emission". Based on the gradient hydrophobicity and fluorescent properties of HPUU-R, a hierarchical information encryption/decryption mode was innovatively established. Using high-performance HPUU-R as a double encryption platform makes the information highly stable and persistent, thus providing a stronger guarantee for the encrypted information. More attractively, given the impressive recyclability and self-healing of HPUU-R, information encryption can be realized by using recycled elastomers, injecting new vitality into green and sustainable development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Xu
- Key Laboratory of Science and Technology on Wear and Protection of Materials, Lanzhou Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou 730000, China
- Center of Materials Science and Optoelectronics Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Xiaoyue Wang
- Key Laboratory of Science and Technology on Wear and Protection of Materials, Lanzhou Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou 730000, China
- Center of Materials Science and Optoelectronics Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Song Li
- Key Laboratory of Science and Technology on Wear and Protection of Materials, Lanzhou Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Yaoming Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Science and Technology on Wear and Protection of Materials, Lanzhou Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Xinrui Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Science and Technology on Wear and Protection of Materials, Lanzhou Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Qihua Wang
- Key Laboratory of Science and Technology on Wear and Protection of Materials, Lanzhou Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou 730000, China
- Center of Materials Science and Optoelectronics Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
- State Key Laboratory of Solid Lubrication, Lanzhou Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Tingmei Wang
- Key Laboratory of Science and Technology on Wear and Protection of Materials, Lanzhou Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou 730000, China
- Center of Materials Science and Optoelectronics Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Zenghui Yang
- Key Laboratory of Science and Technology on Wear and Protection of Materials, Lanzhou Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Liming Tao
- Key Laboratory of Science and Technology on Wear and Protection of Materials, Lanzhou Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou 730000, China
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23
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Xiong H, Yue T, Wu Q, Zhang L, Xie Z, Liu J, Zhang L, Wu J. Self-healing bottlebrush polymer networks enabled via a side-chain interlocking design. MATERIALS HORIZONS 2023; 10:2128-2138. [PMID: 36946355 DOI: 10.1039/d3mh00274h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Exploring novel healing mechanisms is a constant impetus for the development of self-healing materials. Herein, we find that side-chain interlocking of bottlebrush polymers can form a dynamic network and thereby serve as a driving force for the self-healing process of the materials. Molecular dynamics simulation indicates that the interlocking is formed by the interpenetration between the long side chains of adjacent molecules and stabilized by van der Waals interactions and molecular entanglements of side chains. The interlocking can be tailored by changing the length and density of the side chains through atom transfer radical polymerization. As a result, the optimized bottlebrush polymer shows a healing efficiency of up to 100%. Unlike chemical interactions, side-chain interlocking eliminates the introduction of specific chemical groups. Therefore, bottlebrush polymers can even self-heal under harsh aqueous conditions, including acid and alkali solutions. Moreover, the highly dynamic side-chain interlocking enables bottlebrush polymers to efficiently dissipate vibration energy, and thus they can be used as damping materials. Collectively, side-chain interlocking expands the scope of physical interactions in self-healing materials and hews out a versatile way for polymers to accomplish self-healing capability in various environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Xiong
- State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, College of Polymer Science and Engineering, Sichuan University Chengdu 610065, P. R. China.
| | - Tongkui Yue
- State Key Laboratory of Organic-Inorganic Composites, Beijing University of Chemical Technology Interdisciplinary Research Center for Artificial Intelligence, Beijing University of Chemical Technology Beijing 100029, P. R. China.
| | - Qi Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, College of Polymer Science and Engineering, Sichuan University Chengdu 610065, P. R. China.
| | - Linjun Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, College of Polymer Science and Engineering, Sichuan University Chengdu 610065, P. R. China.
| | - Zhengtian Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, College of Polymer Science and Engineering, Sichuan University Chengdu 610065, P. R. China.
| | - Jun Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Organic-Inorganic Composites, Beijing University of Chemical Technology Interdisciplinary Research Center for Artificial Intelligence, Beijing University of Chemical Technology Beijing 100029, P. R. China.
| | - Liqun Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Organic-Inorganic Composites, Beijing University of Chemical Technology Interdisciplinary Research Center for Artificial Intelligence, Beijing University of Chemical Technology Beijing 100029, P. R. China.
| | - Jinrong Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, College of Polymer Science and Engineering, Sichuan University Chengdu 610065, P. R. China.
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24
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Nakagawa S, Aoki D, Asano Y, Yoshie N. Module-Assembled Elastomer Showing Large Strain Stiffening Capability and High Stretchability. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023; 35:e2301124. [PMID: 36929528 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202301124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Elastomers are indispensable materials due to their flexible, stretchable, and elastic nature. However, the polymer network structure constituting an elastomer is generally inhomogeneous, limiting the performance of the material. Here, a highly stretchable elastomer with unprecedented strain-stiffening capability is developed based on a highly homogeneous network structure enabled by a module assembly strategy. The elastomer is synthesized by efficient end-linking of a star-shaped aliphatic polyester precursor with a narrow molecular-weight distribution. The resulting product shows high strength (≈26 MPa) and remarkable stretchability (stretch ratio at break ≈1900%), as well as good fatigue resistance and notch insensitivity. Moreover, it shows extraordinary strain-stiffening capability (>2000-fold increase in the apparent stiffness) that exceeds the performance of any existing soft material. These unique properties are due to strain-induced ordering of the polymer chains in a uniformly stretched network, as revealed by in situ X-ray scattering analyses. The utility of this great strain-stiffening capability is demonstrated by realizing a simple variable stiffness actuator for soft robotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shintaro Nakagawa
- Institute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo, 4-6-1 Komaba, Meguro-ku, Tokyo, 153-8505, Japan
| | - Daisuke Aoki
- Graduate School of Engineering, Chiba University, 1-33 Yayoi-cho, Inage-ku, Chiba, 263-8522, Japan
| | - Yuki Asano
- Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8656, Japan
| | - Naoko Yoshie
- Institute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo, 4-6-1 Komaba, Meguro-ku, Tokyo, 153-8505, Japan
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25
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Wang W, Zhang C, Huang H, Xue B, Yang S. Ambient Environment Adaptive Elastomer Constructed by Microphase Separation and Segment Complexation of Triblock Copolymers. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2023; 15:22426-22434. [PMID: 37126649 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.3c02931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Elastomers with environmental adaption have attracted considerable attention for advanced applications in various areas. Here, we fabricate an ambient environment adaptive elastomer by assembling triblock copolymers polystyrene-b-poly(acrylic acid)-b-polystyrene (SAS) and polystyrene-b-poly(ethylene oxide)-b-polystyrene (SES). Owing to the microphase separation of triblock polymers and hydrogen-bonding complexation of their middle segments, the SAS/SES complex presents dichotomy of vitrified hard PS domains and soft PAA/PEO domains, which presents major relaxation transition in the temperature zone 10-30 °C and relative humidity (RH) 40-60%. The SAS/SES elastomer presents quick adaption to the ambient environment change with temperature and humidity coupling. Moreover, after a loading-unloading cycle training, the SAS/SES elastomer exhibits domain orientation, low energy dissipation, high recovery ratio, and distinct strain stiffening compared with the pristine complex. The SAS/SES elastomer has potential to be used as a sensing and adaption component for complicated intelligent systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weijie Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, Center for Advanced Low-dimension Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, P. R. China
| | - Caihong Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, Center for Advanced Low-dimension Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, P. R. China
| | - Hao Huang
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, Center for Advanced Low-dimension Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, P. R. China
| | - Bing Xue
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, Center for Advanced Low-dimension Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, P. R. China
| | - Shuguang Yang
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, Center for Advanced Low-dimension Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, P. R. China
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26
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Guo R, Zhang Q, Wu Y, Chen H, Liu Y, Wang J, Duan X, Chen Q, Ge Z, Zhang Y. Extremely Strong and Tough Biodegradable Poly(urethane) Elastomers with Unprecedented Crack Tolerance via Hierarchical Hydrogen-Bonding Interactions. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023; 35:e2212130. [PMID: 36822221 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202212130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Revised: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
The elastomers with the combination of high strength and high toughness have always been intensively pursued due to their diverse applications. Biomedical applications frequently require elastomers with biodegradability and biocompatibility properties. It remains a great challenge to prepare the biodegradable elastomers with extremely robust mechanical properties for in vivo use. In this report, we present a polyurethane elastomer with unprecedented mechanical properties for the in vivo application as hernia patches, which was obtained by the solvent-free reaction of polycaprolactone (PCL) and isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI) with N,N-bis(2-hydroxyethyl)oxamide (BHO) as the chain extender. Abundant and hierarchical hydrogen-bonding interactions inside the elastomers hinder the crystallization of PCL segments and facilitate the formation of uniformly distributed hard phase microdomains, which miraculously realize the extremely high strength and toughness with the fracture strength of 92.2 MPa and true stress of 1.9 GPa, while maintaining the elongation-at-break of ≈1900% and ultrahigh toughness of 480.2 MJ m-3 with the unprecedented fracture energy of 322.2 kJ m-2 . Hernia patches made from the elastomer via 3D printing technology exhibit outstanding mechanical properties, biocompatibility, and biodegradability. The robust and biodegradable elastomers demonstrate considerable potentials for in vivo applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Guo
- Engineering Research Center of Energy Storage Materials and Devices, Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710049, China
| | - Qiang Zhang
- Engineering Research Center of Energy Storage Materials and Devices, Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710049, China
| | - Youshen Wu
- Engineering Research Center of Energy Storage Materials and Devices, Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710049, China
| | - Hongbing Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Polymer Physics and Chemistry, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, 130022, China
| | - Yanghe Liu
- Key Laboratory for Non-equilibrium Synthesis and Modulation of Condensed Matter, School of Chemistry, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710049, China
| | - Jingjing Wang
- School of Pharmacy Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, China
| | - Xianglong Duan
- Second Department of General Surgery, Shaanxi Provincial People's Hospital and Third Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710068, China
| | - Quan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Polymer Physics and Chemistry, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, 130022, China
| | - Zhishen Ge
- Engineering Research Center of Energy Storage Materials and Devices, Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710049, China
| | - Yanfeng Zhang
- Engineering Research Center of Energy Storage Materials and Devices, Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710049, China
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27
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Adeli Y, Owusu F, Nüesch FA, Opris DM. On-Demand Cross-Linkable Bottlebrush Polymers for Voltage-Driven Artificial Muscles. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2023; 15:20410-20420. [PMID: 37042624 PMCID: PMC10141291 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.2c23026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Dielectric elastomer actuators (DEAs) generate motion resembling natural muscles in reliability, adaptability, elongation, and frequency of operation. They are highly attractive in implantable soft robots or artificial organs. However, many applications of such devices are hindered by the high driving voltage required for operation, which exceeds the safety threshold for the human body. Although the driving voltage can be reduced by decreasing the thickness and the elastic modulus, soft materials are prone to electromechanical instability (EMI), which causes dielectric breakdown. The elastomers made by cross-linking bottlebrush polymers are promising for achieving DEAs that suppress EMI. In previous work, they were chemically cross-linked using an in situ free-radical UV-induced polymerization, which is oxygen-sensitive and does not allow the formation of thin films. Therefore, the respective actuators were operated at voltages above 4000 V. Herein, macromonomers that can be polymerized by ring-opening metathesis polymerization and subsequently cross-linked via a UV-induced thiol-ene click reaction are developed. They allow us to fast cross-link defect-free thin films with a thickness below 100 μm. The dielectric films give up to 12% lateral actuation at 1000 V and survive more than 10,000 cycles at frequencies up to 10 Hz. The easy and efficient preparation approach of the defect-free thin films under air provides easy accessibility to bottlebrush polymeric materials for future research. Additionally, the desired properties, actuation under low voltage, and long lifetime revealed the potential of the developed materials in soft robotic implantable devices. Furthermore, the C-C double bonds in the polymer backbone allow for chemical modification with polar groups and increase the materials' dielectric permittivity to a value of 5.5, which is the highest value of dielectric permittivity for a cross-linked bottlebrush polymer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeerlan Adeli
- Laboratory
for Functional Polymers, Swiss Federal Laboratories
for Materials Science and Technology Empa, Ueberlandstr. 129, CH-8600 Dübendorf, Switzerland
- Institute
of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, Ecole
Polytechnique Federale de Lausanne, EPFL, Station 6, CH-1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Francis Owusu
- Laboratory
for Functional Polymers, Swiss Federal Laboratories
for Materials Science and Technology Empa, Ueberlandstr. 129, CH-8600 Dübendorf, Switzerland
- Institute
of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, Ecole
Polytechnique Federale de Lausanne, EPFL, Station 6, CH-1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Frank A. Nüesch
- Laboratory
for Functional Polymers, Swiss Federal Laboratories
for Materials Science and Technology Empa, Ueberlandstr. 129, CH-8600 Dübendorf, Switzerland
- Institute
of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, Ecole
Polytechnique Federale de Lausanne, EPFL, Station 6, CH-1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Dorina M. Opris
- Laboratory
for Functional Polymers, Swiss Federal Laboratories
for Materials Science and Technology Empa, Ueberlandstr. 129, CH-8600 Dübendorf, Switzerland
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28
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Kureha T, Takahashi K, Kino M, Kida H, Hirayama T. Controlling the mechanical properties of hydrogels via modulating the side-chain length. SOFT MATTER 2023; 19:2878-2882. [PMID: 37060153 DOI: 10.1039/d3sm00134b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Even though the toughness of hydrogels is usually adjusted by changing the cross-linking density and structure, or the polymer concentration, we have discovered a new strategy to control the toughness via modulating the side-chain length. In this study, this strategy was applied to biocompatible poly(oligo(ethylene glycol) methyl ether methacrylate) with long ethylene-oxide side chains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takuma Kureha
- Department of Frontier Materials Chemistry, Graduate School of Science and Technology, Hirosaki University, 3 Bunkyo-cho, Hirosaki 036-8561, Japan.
| | - Kazuma Takahashi
- Department of Frontier Materials Chemistry, Graduate School of Science and Technology, Hirosaki University, 3 Bunkyo-cho, Hirosaki 036-8561, Japan.
| | - Mion Kino
- Department of Frontier Materials Chemistry, Graduate School of Science and Technology, Hirosaki University, 3 Bunkyo-cho, Hirosaki 036-8561, Japan.
| | - Hikaru Kida
- Department of Frontier Materials Chemistry, Graduate School of Science and Technology, Hirosaki University, 3 Bunkyo-cho, Hirosaki 036-8561, Japan.
| | - Takuto Hirayama
- Department of Frontier Materials Chemistry, Graduate School of Science and Technology, Hirosaki University, 3 Bunkyo-cho, Hirosaki 036-8561, Japan.
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29
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Martinsen M, Economopoulos S, Jakobsen M, Lein H, Diget J. Synthesis of PDMS/PEG graft-like and block copolymers via industrially relevant reverse iodine transfer polymerization. POLYMER 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.polymer.2023.125905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
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30
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Maw M, Dashtimoghadam E, Keith AN, Morgan BJ, Tanas AK, Nikitina E, Ivanov DA, Vatankhah-Varnosfaderani M, Dobrynin AV, Sheiko SS. Sticky Architecture: Encoding Pressure Sensitive Adhesion in Polymer Networks. ACS CENTRAL SCIENCE 2023; 9:197-205. [PMID: 36844501 PMCID: PMC9951292 DOI: 10.1021/acscentsci.2c01407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Pressure sensitive adhesives (PSAs) are ubiquitous materials within a spectrum that span from office supplies to biomedical devices. Currently, the ability of PSAs to meet the needs of these diverse applications relies on trial-and-error mixing of assorted chemicals and polymers, which inherently entails property imprecision and variance over time due to component migration and leaching. Herein, we develop a precise additive-free PSA design platform that predictably leverages polymer network architecture to empower comprehensive control over adhesive performance. Utilizing the chemical universality of brush-like elastomers, we encode work of adhesion ranging 5 orders of magnitude with a single polymer chemistry by coordinating brush architectural parameters-side chain length and grafting density. Lessons from this design-by-architecture approach are essential for future implementation of AI machinery in molecular engineering of both cured and thermoplastic PSAs incorporated into everyday use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitchell Maw
- Department
of Chemistry, University of North Carolina
at Chapel Hill, Chapel
Hill, North Carolina 27599-3290, United States
| | - Erfan Dashtimoghadam
- Department
of Chemistry, University of North Carolina
at Chapel Hill, Chapel
Hill, North Carolina 27599-3290, United States
| | - Andrew N. Keith
- Department
of Chemistry, University of North Carolina
at Chapel Hill, Chapel
Hill, North Carolina 27599-3290, United States
| | - Benjamin J. Morgan
- Department
of Chemistry, University of North Carolina
at Chapel Hill, Chapel
Hill, North Carolina 27599-3290, United States
| | - Alexander K. Tanas
- Department
of Chemistry, University of North Carolina
at Chapel Hill, Chapel
Hill, North Carolina 27599-3290, United States
| | - Evgeniia Nikitina
- Lomonosov
Moscow State University, Leninskie Gory 1, 119991, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Dimitri A. Ivanov
- Lomonosov
Moscow State University, Leninskie Gory 1, 119991, Moscow, Russian Federation
- Institut
de Sciences des Matériaux de Mulhouse-IS2M, CNRS UMR 7361, 15, rue Jean Starcky, F-68057 Mulhouse, France
| | | | - Andrey V. Dobrynin
- Department
of Chemistry, University of North Carolina
at Chapel Hill, Chapel
Hill, North Carolina 27599-3290, United States
| | - Sergei S. Sheiko
- Department
of Chemistry, University of North Carolina
at Chapel Hill, Chapel
Hill, North Carolina 27599-3290, United States
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31
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Jacobs M, Tian Y, Dobrynin AV. Deformation Driven Deswelling of Brush Gels. Macromolecules 2023. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.macromol.2c02385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Jacobs
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599-3290, United States
- Center for Nanophase Materials Sciences, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37830, United States
| | - Yuan Tian
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599-3290, United States
| | - Andrey V. Dobrynin
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599-3290, United States
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32
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Dadashi-Silab S, Stache EE. Sticky or Not: Adhesion by Architectural Design. ACS CENTRAL SCIENCE 2023; 9:134-136. [PMID: 36844487 PMCID: PMC9951289 DOI: 10.1021/acscentsci.3c00104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Sajjad Dadashi-Silab
- Department of Chemistry and
Chemical Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853, United States
| | - Erin E. Stache
- Department of Chemistry and
Chemical Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853, United States
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33
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Conductive and elastic bottlebrush elastomers for ultrasoft electronics. Nat Commun 2023; 14:623. [PMID: 36739447 PMCID: PMC9899285 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-36214-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Understanding biological systems and mimicking their functions require electronic tools that can interact with biological tissues with matched softness. These tools involve biointerfacing materials that should concurrently match the softness of biological tissue and exhibit suitable electrical conductivities for recording and reading bioelectronic signals. However, commonly employed intrinsically soft and stretchable materials usually contain solvents that limit stability for long-term use or possess low electronic conductivity. To date, an ultrasoft (i.e., Young's modulus <30 kPa), conductive, and solvent-free elastomer does not exist. Additionally, integrating such ultrasoft and conductive materials into electronic devices is poorly explored. This article reports a solvent-free, ultrasoft and conductive PDMS bottlebrush elastomer (BBE) composite with single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) as conductive fillers. The conductive SWCNT/BBE with a filler concentration of 0.4 - 0.6 wt% reveals an ultralow Young's modulus (<11 kPa) and satisfactory conductivity (>2 S/m) as well as adhesion property. Furthermore, we fabricate ultrasoft electronics based on laser cutting and 3D printing of conductive and non-conductive BBEs and demonstrate their potential applications in wearable sensing, soft robotics, and electrophysiological recording.
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34
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Liu Q, Wang X, Hou Y, Cheng Y, Zhang J, Xiao L, Zhao J, Li W. Bio-inspired Hydrogel Actuator with Rapid Self-strengthening Behavior. Eur Polym J 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eurpolymj.2023.111941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/25/2023]
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35
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Husted KL, Herzog-Arbeitman A, Kleinschmidt D, Zhang W, Sun Z, Fielitz AJ, Le AN, Zhong M, Johnson JA. Pendant Group Modifications Provide Graft Copolymer Silicones with Exceptionally Broad Thermomechanical Properties. ACS CENTRAL SCIENCE 2023; 9:36-47. [PMID: 36712487 PMCID: PMC9881205 DOI: 10.1021/acscentsci.2c01246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Graft copolymers offer a versatile platform for the design of self-assembling materials; however, simple strategies for precisely and independently controlling the thermomechanical and morphological properties of graft copolymers remain elusive. Here, using a library of 92 polynorbornene-graft-polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) copolymers, we discover a versatile backbone-pendant sequence-control strategy that addresses this challenge. Small structural variations of pendant groups, e.g., cyclohexyl versus n-hexyl, of small-molecule comonomers have dramatic impacts on order-to-disorder transitions, glass transitions, mechanical properties, and morphologies of statistical and block silicone-based graft copolymers, providing an exceptionally broad palette of designable materials properties. For example, statistical graft copolymers with high PDMS volume fractions yielded unbridged body-centered cubic morphologies that behaved as soft plastic crystals. By contrast, lamellae-forming graft copolymers provided robust, yet reprocessable silicone thermoplastics (TPs) with transition temperatures spanning over 160 °C and elastic moduli as high as 150 MPa despite being both unentangled and un-cross-linked. Altogether, this study reveals a new pendant-group-mediated self-assembly strategy that simplifies graft copolymer synthesis and enables access to a diverse family of silicone-based materials, setting the stage for the broader development of self-assembling materials with tailored performance specifications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keith
E. L. Husted
- Department
of Chemistry, Massachusetts Institute of
Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Abraham Herzog-Arbeitman
- Department
of Chemistry, Massachusetts Institute of
Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Denise Kleinschmidt
- Department
of Chemistry, Massachusetts Institute of
Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Wenxu Zhang
- Department
of Chemistry, Massachusetts Institute of
Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Zehao Sun
- Department
of Materials Science and Engineering, Massachusetts
Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Alyssa J. Fielitz
- Core
R&D, Analytical Science, The Dow Chemical
Company, Midland, Michigan 48640, United States
| | - An N. Le
- Department
of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut 06520, United States
| | - Mingjiang Zhong
- Department
of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut 06520, United States
| | - Jeremiah A. Johnson
- Department
of Chemistry, Massachusetts Institute of
Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
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36
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Zhang Z, You W, Li P, Zhao J, Guo Z, Xu T, Chen J, Yu W, Yan X. Insights into the Correlation of Microscopic Motions of [ c2]Daisy Chains with Macroscopic Mechanical Performance for Mechanically Interlocked Networks. J Am Chem Soc 2023; 145:567-578. [PMID: 36562646 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.2c11105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Mimicking filament sliding in sarcomeres using artificial molecular muscles such as [c2]daisy chains has aroused increasing interest in developing advanced polymeric materials. Although few bistable [c2]daisy chain-based mechanically interlocked polymers (MIPs) with stimuli-responsive behaviors have been constructed, it remains a significant challenge to establish the relationship between microscopic responsiveness of [c2]daisy chains and macroscopic mechanical properties of the corresponding MIPs. Herein, we report two mechanically interlocked networks (MINs) consisting of dense [c2]daisy chains with individual extension (MIN-1) or contraction (MIN-2) conformations decoupled from a bistable precursor, which serve as model systems to address the challenge. Upon external force, the extended [c2]daisy chains in MIN-1 mainly undergo elastic deformation, which is able to assure the strength, elasticity, and creep resistance of the corresponding material. For the contracted [c2]daisy chains, long-range sliding motion occurs along with the release of latent alkyl chains between the two DB24C8 wheels, and accumulating lots of such microscopic motions endows MIN-2 with enhanced ductility and ability of energy dissipation. Therefore, by decoupling a bistable [c2]daisy chain into individual extended and contracted ones, we directly correlate the microscopic motion of [c2]daisy chains with macroscopic mechanical properties of MINs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaoming Zhang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai200240, P. R. China
| | - Wei You
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai200240, P. R. China
| | - Peitong Li
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai200240, P. R. China
| | - Jun Zhao
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai200240, P. R. China
| | - Zhewen Guo
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai200240, P. R. China
| | - Tingjie Xu
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai200240, P. R. China
| | - Jieqi Chen
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai200240, P. R. China
| | - Wei Yu
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai200240, P. R. China
| | - Xuzhou Yan
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai200240, P. R. China
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37
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Xu J, Jiang Y, Gao L. Synthetic strain-stiffening hydrogels towards mechanical adaptability. J Mater Chem B 2023; 11:221-243. [PMID: 36507877 DOI: 10.1039/d2tb01743a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Living organisms are made of wet, soft tissues. However, there is only one candidate to simultaneously replicate the mechanical and composition features of load-bearing tissues, that is, strain-stiffening hydrogels. The conventional mechanical match design principle is mostly limited to stiffness matching. However, this strategy cannot sufficiently and necessarily lead to mechanical matching over the whole physiologic deformation period for tissues and damages the tissues over time. In this review, we aim to provide a comprehensive summary of the reported synthetic strain-stiffening hydrogels and particularly focus on the relationship between their structure and performance. Initially, we present a brief introduction on the significance of strain-stiffening hydrogels in mimicking the mechanics of tissues, and then we discuss the qualitative evaluation of the strain-stiffening behaviors to guide the design of materials towards mimicking soft tissue. After distinguishing the mechanical testing methods, we focus on the methods for the preparation of typical strain-stiffening hydrogels based on categories, such as network without strand entanglement, semiflexible network, and anisotropic networks. Subsequently, we discuss the structural evolution of strain-stiffening hydrogels. We hope that this review will serve as an updated introduction and reference for researchers who are interested in exploring strain-stiffening hydrogels as tissue-mimics for addressing the societal needs at various frontiers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingyu Xu
- School of Light Industry and Chemical Engineering, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China.
| | - Yin Jiang
- School of Light Industry and Chemical Engineering, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China.
| | - Liang Gao
- School of Light Industry and Chemical Engineering, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China. .,Jieyang Branch of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Rongjiang Laboratory), Jieyang 515200, China
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38
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He Y, Li Q, Chen P, Duan Q, Zhan J, Cai X, Wang L, Hou H, Qiu X. A smart adhesive Janus hydrogel for non-invasive cardiac repair and tissue adhesion prevention. Nat Commun 2022; 13:7666. [PMID: 36509756 PMCID: PMC9744843 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-35437-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Multifunctional hydrogel with asymmetric and reversible adhesion characteristics is essential to handle the obstructions towards bioapplications of trauma removal and postoperative tissue synechia. Herein, we developed a responsively reversible and asymmetrically adhesive Janus hydrogel that enables on-demand stimuli-triggered detachment for efficient myocardial infarction (MI) repair, and synchronously prevents tissue synechia and inflammatory intrusion after surgery. In contrast with most irreversibly and hard-to-removable adhesives, this Janus hydrogel exhibited a reversible adhesion capability and can be noninvasively detached on-demand just by slight biologics. It is interesting that the adhesion behaves exhibited a molecularly encoded adhesion-adaptive stiffening feature similar to the self-protective stress-strain effect of biological tissues. In vitro and in vivo experiments demonstrated that Janus hydrogel can promote the maturation and functions of cardiomyocytes, and facilitate MI repair by reducing oxidative damage and inflammatory response, reconstructing electrical conduction and blood supply in infarcted area. Furthermore, no secondary injury and tissue synechia were triggered after transplantation of Janus hydrogel. This smart Janus hydrogel reported herein offers a potential strategy for clinically transformable cardiac patch and anti-postoperative tissue synechia barrier.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yutong He
- grid.284723.80000 0000 8877 7471The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510900 People’s Republic of China ,grid.484195.5Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Construction and Detection in Tissue Engineering, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515 People’s Republic of China
| | - Qian Li
- grid.484195.5Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Construction and Detection in Tissue Engineering, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515 People’s Republic of China ,grid.284723.80000 0000 8877 7471School of Basic Medical Science, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515 People’s Republic of China
| | - Pinger Chen
- grid.484195.5Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Construction and Detection in Tissue Engineering, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515 People’s Republic of China ,grid.284723.80000 0000 8877 7471School of Basic Medical Science, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515 People’s Republic of China
| | - Qixiang Duan
- grid.484195.5Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Construction and Detection in Tissue Engineering, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515 People’s Republic of China ,grid.284723.80000 0000 8877 7471School of Basic Medical Science, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515 People’s Republic of China
| | - Jiamian Zhan
- grid.484195.5Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Construction and Detection in Tissue Engineering, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515 People’s Republic of China ,grid.284723.80000 0000 8877 7471School of Basic Medical Science, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515 People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaohui Cai
- grid.284723.80000 0000 8877 7471School of Pharmaceutical Science, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515 People’s Republic of China
| | - Leyu Wang
- grid.484195.5Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Construction and Detection in Tissue Engineering, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515 People’s Republic of China ,grid.284723.80000 0000 8877 7471Biomaterials Research Center, School of Biomedical Engineering, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515 People’s Republic of China
| | - Honghao Hou
- grid.484195.5Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Construction and Detection in Tissue Engineering, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515 People’s Republic of China ,grid.284723.80000 0000 8877 7471School of Basic Medical Science, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515 People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaozhong Qiu
- grid.284723.80000 0000 8877 7471The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510900 People’s Republic of China ,grid.484195.5Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Construction and Detection in Tissue Engineering, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515 People’s Republic of China
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39
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Dashtimoghadam E, Maw M, Keith AN, Vashahi F, Kempkes V, Gordievskaya YD, Kramarenko EY, Bersenev EA, Nikitina EA, Ivanov DA, Tian Y, Dobrynin AV, Vatankhah-Varnosfaderani M, Sheiko SS. Super-soft, firm, and strong elastomers toward replication of tissue viscoelastic response. MATERIALS HORIZONS 2022; 9:3022-3030. [PMID: 36128881 DOI: 10.1039/d2mh00844k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Polymeric networks are commonly used for various biomedical applications, from reconstructive surgery to wearable electronics. Some materials may be soft, firm, strong, or damping however, implementing all four properties into a single material to replicate the mechanical properties of tissue has been inaccessible. Herein, we present the A-g-B brush-like graft copolymer platform as a framework for fabrication of materials with independently tunable softness and firmness, capable of reaching a strength of ∼10 MPa on par with stress-supporting tissues such as blood vessel, muscle, and skin. These properties are maintained by architectural control, therefore diverse mechanical phenotypes are attainable for a variety of different chemistries. Utilizing this attribute, we demonstrate the capability of the A-g-B platform to enhance specific characteristics such as tackiness, damping, and moldability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erfan Dashtimoghadam
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 27599, USA.
| | - Mitchell Maw
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 27599, USA.
| | - Andrew N Keith
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 27599, USA.
| | - Foad Vashahi
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 27599, USA.
| | - Verena Kempkes
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 27599, USA.
| | - Yulia D Gordievskaya
- Lomonosov Moscow State University, Leninskie Gory 1, 119991, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Elena Yu Kramarenko
- Lomonosov Moscow State University, Leninskie Gory 1, 119991, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Egor A Bersenev
- Lomonosov Moscow State University, Leninskie Gory 1, 119991, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Evgeniia A Nikitina
- Lomonosov Moscow State University, Leninskie Gory 1, 119991, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Dimitri A Ivanov
- Lomonosov Moscow State University, Leninskie Gory 1, 119991, Moscow, Russian Federation
- Institut de Sciences des Matériaux de Mulhouse-IS2M, CNRS UMR 7361, 15, rue Jean Starcky, F-68057 Mulhouse, France.
- Sirius University of Science and Technology, 1 Olympic Ave, 354340, Sochi, Russian Federation
| | - Yuan Tian
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 27599, USA.
| | - Andrey V Dobrynin
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 27599, USA.
| | | | - Sergei S Sheiko
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 27599, USA.
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40
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Clarke BR, Kim H, Ilton M, Watkins JJ, Crosby AJ, Tew GN. The Impact of Polymerization Chemistry on the Mechanical Properties of Poly(dimethylsiloxane) Bottlebrush Elastomers. Macromolecules 2022. [PMID: 37502106 PMCID: PMC10373355 DOI: 10.1021/acs.macromol.2c01332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
We compare the low-strain mechanical properties of bottlebrush elastomers (BBEs) synthesized using ring-opening metathesis and free radical polymerization. Through comparison of experimentally measured elastic moduli and those predicted by an ideal, affine model, we evaluate the efficiency of our networks in forming stress-supporting strands. This comparison allowed us to develop a structural efficiency ratio that facilitates the prediction of mechanical properties relative to polymerization chemistry (e.g., softer BBEs when polymerizing under dilute conditions). This work highlights the impact that polymerization chemistry has on the structural efficiency ratio and the resultant mechanical properties of BBEs with identical side chains, providing another "knob" by which to control polymer network properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brandon R. Clarke
- Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, Massachusetts 01003, United States
| | - Hyemin Kim
- Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, Massachusetts 01003, United States
| | - Mark Ilton
- Department of Physics, Harvey Mudd College, Claremont, California 91711, United States
| | - James J. Watkins
- Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, Massachusetts 01003, United States
| | - Alfred J. Crosby
- Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, Massachusetts 01003, United States
| | - Gregory N. Tew
- Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, Massachusetts 01003, United States
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41
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The biomechanics of ultra-stretchable nerves. iScience 2022; 25:105295. [DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.105295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
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42
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Tan Y, Chen H, Kang W, Wang X. Versatile Light-Mediated Synthesis of Dry Ion-Conducting Dynamic Bottlebrush Networks with High Elasticity, Interfacial Adhesiveness, and Flame Retardancy. Macromolecules 2022. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.macromol.2c01234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yu Tan
- National Engineering Research Center for Colloidal Materials, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong250100, China
| | - Huan Chen
- National Engineering Research Center for Colloidal Materials, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong250100, China
| | - Wenbing Kang
- National Engineering Research Center for Colloidal Materials, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong250100, China
| | - Xu Wang
- National Engineering Research Center for Colloidal Materials, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong250100, China
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43
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Cui J, Chen J, Ni Z, Dong W, Chen M, Shi D. High-Sensitivity Flexible Sensor Based on Biomimetic Strain-Stiffening Hydrogel. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2022; 14:47148-47156. [PMID: 36205693 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.2c15203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Recently, flexible wearable and implantable electronic devices have attracted enormous interest in biomedical applications. However, current bioelectronic systems have not solved the problem of mechanical mismatch of tissue-electrode interfaces. Therefore, the biomimetic hydrogel with tissue-like mechanical properties is highly desirable for flexible electronic devices. Herein, we propose a strategy to fabricate a biomimetic hydrogel with strain-stiffening property via regional chain entanglements. The strain-stiffening property of the biomimetic hydrogel is realized by embedding highly swollen poly(acrylate sodium) microgels to act as the microregions of dense entanglement in the soft polyacrylamide matrix. In addition, poly(acrylate sodium) microgels can release Na+ ions, endowing hydrogel with electrical signals to serve as strain sensors for detecting different human movements. The resultant sensors own a low Young's modulus (22.61-112.45 kPa), high nominal tensile strength (0.99 MPa), and high sensitivity with a gauge factor up to 6.77 at strain of 300%. Based on its simple manufacture process, well mechanical matching suitability, and high sensitivity, the as-prepared sensor might have great potential for a wide range of large-scale applications such as wearable and implantable electronic devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianbing Cui
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Biological Colloids, Ministry of Education, School of Chemical and Material Engineering, Jiangnan University, Wuxi214122, China
| | - Jiwei Chen
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Biological Colloids, Ministry of Education, School of Chemical and Material Engineering, Jiangnan University, Wuxi214122, China
| | - Zhongbin Ni
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Biological Colloids, Ministry of Education, School of Chemical and Material Engineering, Jiangnan University, Wuxi214122, China
| | - Weifu Dong
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Biological Colloids, Ministry of Education, School of Chemical and Material Engineering, Jiangnan University, Wuxi214122, China
| | - Mingqing Chen
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Biological Colloids, Ministry of Education, School of Chemical and Material Engineering, Jiangnan University, Wuxi214122, China
| | - Dongjian Shi
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Biological Colloids, Ministry of Education, School of Chemical and Material Engineering, Jiangnan University, Wuxi214122, China
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44
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Wang Z, Yoon S, Wang J. Breaking the Paradox between Grafting-Through and Depolymerization to Access Recyclable Graft Polymers. Macromolecules 2022. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.macromol.2c01609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Zeyu Wang
- School of Polymer Science and Polymer Engineering, the University of Akron, Akron, Ohio 44325, United States
| | - Seiyoung Yoon
- School of Polymer Science and Polymer Engineering, the University of Akron, Akron, Ohio 44325, United States
| | - Junpeng Wang
- School of Polymer Science and Polymer Engineering, the University of Akron, Akron, Ohio 44325, United States
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45
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Ribeiro S, Pugliese E, Korntner SH, Fernandes EM, Gomes ME, Reis RL, O'Riordan A, Bayon Y, Zeugolis DI. Assessing the combined effect of surface topography and substrate rigidity in human bone marrow stem cell cultures. Eng Life Sci 2022; 22:619-633. [PMID: 36247829 PMCID: PMC9550738 DOI: 10.1002/elsc.202200029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Ribeiro
- Medtronic Sofradim Production Trevoux France
- Regenerative Modular & Developmental Engineering Laboratory (REMODEL) and Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) Centre for Research in Medical Devices (CÚRAM) National University of Ireland Galway (NUI Galway) Galway Ireland
| | - Eugenia Pugliese
- Regenerative Modular & Developmental Engineering Laboratory (REMODEL) and Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) Centre for Research in Medical Devices (CÚRAM) National University of Ireland Galway (NUI Galway) Galway Ireland
| | - Stefanie H. Korntner
- Regenerative Modular & Developmental Engineering Laboratory (REMODEL) and Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) Centre for Research in Medical Devices (CÚRAM) National University of Ireland Galway (NUI Galway) Galway Ireland
| | - Emanuel M. Fernandes
- 3B's Research Group I3Bs – Research Institute on Biomaterials Biodegradables and Biomimetics University of Minho Headquarters of the European Institute of Excellence on Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine AvePark Parque de Ciência e Tecnologia Zona Industrial da Gandra Barco Guimarães Portugal
- ICVS/3B's – PT Government Associate Laboratory Braga/Guimarães Portugal
| | - Manuela E. Gomes
- 3B's Research Group I3Bs – Research Institute on Biomaterials Biodegradables and Biomimetics University of Minho Headquarters of the European Institute of Excellence on Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine AvePark Parque de Ciência e Tecnologia Zona Industrial da Gandra Barco Guimarães Portugal
- ICVS/3B's – PT Government Associate Laboratory Braga/Guimarães Portugal
| | - Rui L. Reis
- 3B's Research Group I3Bs – Research Institute on Biomaterials Biodegradables and Biomimetics University of Minho Headquarters of the European Institute of Excellence on Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine AvePark Parque de Ciência e Tecnologia Zona Industrial da Gandra Barco Guimarães Portugal
- ICVS/3B's – PT Government Associate Laboratory Braga/Guimarães Portugal
| | | | - Yves Bayon
- Medtronic Sofradim Production Trevoux France
| | - Dimitrios I. Zeugolis
- Regenerative Modular & Developmental Engineering Laboratory (REMODEL) and Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) Centre for Research in Medical Devices (CÚRAM) National University of Ireland Galway (NUI Galway) Galway Ireland
- Regenerative Modular & Developmental Engineering Laboratory (REMODEL) Charles Institute of Dermatology Conway Institute of Biomolecular & Biomedical Research and School of Mechanical & Materials Engineering University College Dublin (UCD) Dublin Ireland
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46
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Paunović N, Marbach J, Bao Y, Berger V, Klein K, Schleich S, Coulter FB, Kleger N, Studart AR, Franzen D, Luo Z, Leroux J. Digital Light 3D Printed Bioresorbable and NIR-Responsive Devices with Photothermal and Shape-Memory Functions. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2022; 9:e2200907. [PMID: 35896948 PMCID: PMC9507367 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202200907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Revised: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Digital light processing (DLP) 3D printing is a promising technique for the rapid manufacturing of customized medical devices with high precision. To be successfully translated to a clinical setting, challenges in the development of suitable photopolymerizable materials have yet to be overcome. Besides biocompatibility, it is often desirable for the printed devices to be biodegradable, elastic, and with a therapeutic function. Here, a multifunctional DLP printed material system based on the composite of gold nanorods and polyester copolymer is reported. The material demonstrates robust near-infrared (NIR) responsiveness, allowing rapid and stable photothermal effect leading to the time-dependent cell death. NIR light-triggerable shape transformation is demonstrated, resulting in a facilitated insertion and expansion of DLP printed stent ex vivo. The proposed strategy opens a promising avenue for the design of multifunctional therapeutic devices based on nanoparticle-polymer composites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nevena Paunović
- Institute of Pharmaceutical SciencesDepartment of Chemistry and Applied BiosciencesETH ZurichZurich8093Switzerland
| | - Jessica Marbach
- Institute of Pharmaceutical SciencesDepartment of Chemistry and Applied BiosciencesETH ZurichZurich8093Switzerland
| | - Yinyin Bao
- Institute of Pharmaceutical SciencesDepartment of Chemistry and Applied BiosciencesETH ZurichZurich8093Switzerland
| | - Valentine Berger
- Institute of Pharmaceutical SciencesDepartment of Chemistry and Applied BiosciencesETH ZurichZurich8093Switzerland
| | - Karina Klein
- Musculoskeletal Research UnitVetsuisse FacultyUniversity of ZurichZurich8057Switzerland
| | - Sarah Schleich
- Musculoskeletal Research UnitVetsuisse FacultyUniversity of ZurichZurich8057Switzerland
| | | | - Nicole Kleger
- Complex MaterialsDepartment of MaterialsETH ZurichZurich8093Switzerland
| | - André R. Studart
- Complex MaterialsDepartment of MaterialsETH ZurichZurich8093Switzerland
| | - Daniel Franzen
- Department of PulmonologyUniversity Hospital ZurichZurich8006Switzerland
| | - Zhi Luo
- Institute of Pharmaceutical SciencesDepartment of Chemistry and Applied BiosciencesETH ZurichZurich8093Switzerland
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Advanced Biomaterials, Department of Biomedical EngineeringSouthern University of Science and TechnologyShenzhen518055P. R. China
| | - Jean‐Christophe Leroux
- Institute of Pharmaceutical SciencesDepartment of Chemistry and Applied BiosciencesETH ZurichZurich8093Switzerland
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47
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Xing Z, Lu H, Shu DW, Fu YQ. Non-Euclidean geometry model for chemo-mechanical coupling in self-assembled polymers towards dynamic elasticity. POLYMER 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.polymer.2022.125094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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48
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Nakagawa S, Yoshie N. Linking microscopic structural changes and macroscopic mechanical responses in a near-ideal bottlebrush elastomer under uniaxial deformation. SOFT MATTER 2022; 18:4527-4535. [PMID: 35670222 DOI: 10.1039/d2sm00492e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Bottlebrush (BB) elastomers, in which load-bearing network strands are densely grafted with side chains, are gaining much attention due to their unique mechanical properties. Herein, we used in situ small-angle X-ray scattering coupled with tensile tests to investigate the microscopic structural changes induced in a model BB elastomer with a controlled network structure under uniaxial deformation. The model BB elastomer was synthesized by end-linking a monodisperse star-shaped BB polymer, which ensured a controlled network structure. The BB elastomer exhibited both significant strain stiffening and backbone chain alignment under uniaxial loading, and these properties were not observed in an analogous side chain-free elastomer and gel. It was also found that the side chains in the BB elastomer did not show any sign of chain orientation even when the attached backbone chain was aligned in the stretching direction. These observations highlighted the roles of side chains: they were structurally disordered at the segment level but their steric repulsion made the backbone chain aligned and overstretched.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shintaro Nakagawa
- Institute of Industrial Science, the University of Tokyo, Komaba 4-6-1, Meguro-ku, Tokyo 153-8505, Japan.
| | - Naoko Yoshie
- Institute of Industrial Science, the University of Tokyo, Komaba 4-6-1, Meguro-ku, Tokyo 153-8505, Japan.
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49
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Abstract
We report the synthesis of novel poly(ethylene glycol) and poly(dimethyl siloxane) (PEG and PDMS, respectively) bottlebrush amphiphilic polymer co-networks (B-APCNs) with high gel fractions by a grafting-through ring-opening metathesis polymerization. By varying the volume fraction of PEG (ϕPEG), we alter the crystallinity of the networks, achieving complete suppression of PEG crystallinity at ϕPEG=0.35. Furthermore, we show that the crystallinity of these networks can be tuned to alter their moduli. Through dynamic mechanical analysis, we show that the storage and loss moduli of networks with completely suppressed crystallinity (ϕPEG=0.35) behave similarly to a PDMS homopolymer bottlebrush network. These bottlebrush networks represent an unexplored architecture for the field of amphiphilic polymer co-networks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brandon R. Clarke
- Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, Massachusetts 01003, United States
| | - Gregory N. Tew
- Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, Massachusetts 01003, United States
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50
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Chen Z, Zhang T, Chen CT, Yang S, Lv Z, Cao L, Ren J, Shao Z, Jiang LB, Ling S. Mechanically and electrically biocompatible hydrogel ionotronic fibers for fabricating structurally stable implants and enabling noncontact physioelectrical modulation. MATERIALS HORIZONS 2022; 9:1735-1749. [PMID: 35502878 DOI: 10.1039/d2mh00296e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Narrowing the mechanical and electrical mismatch between tissue and implantable microelectronics is essential for reducing immune responses and modulating physioelectrical signals. Nevertheless, the design of such implantable microelectronics remains a challenge due to the limited availability of suitable materials. Here, the fabrication of an electrically and mechanically biocompatible alginate hydrogel ionotronic fiber (AHIF) is reported, which is constructed by combing ionic chelation-assisted wet-spinning and mechanical training. The synergistic effects of these two processes allow the alginate to form a highly-oriented nanofibril and molecular network, with a hierarchical structure highly similar to that of natural fibers. These favourable structural features endow AHIF with tissue-mimicking mechanical characteristics, such as self-stiffening and soft tissue-like mechanical properties. In addition, tissue-like chemical components, i.e., biomacromolecules, Ca2+ ions, and water, endow AHIF with properties including biocompatibility and tissue-matching conductivity. These advantages bring light to the application of AHIFs in electrically-conductive implantable devices. As a prototype, an AHIF is designed to perform physioelectrical modulation through noncontact electromagnetic induction. Through experimental and machine learning optimizations, physioelectrical-like signals generated by the AHIF are used to identify the geometry and tension state of the implanted device in the body. Such an intelligent AHIF system has promising application prospects in bioelectronics, IntelliSense, and human-machine interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhihao Chen
- School of Physical Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, 393 Middle Huaxia Road, Shanghai, 201210, China.
| | - Taiwei Zhang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, No. 180, Fenglin Road, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Chun-Teh Chen
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, 94720 CA, USA
| | - Shuo Yang
- School of Physical Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, 393 Middle Huaxia Road, Shanghai, 201210, China.
| | - Zhuochen Lv
- School of Physical Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, 393 Middle Huaxia Road, Shanghai, 201210, China.
| | - Leitao Cao
- School of Physical Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, 393 Middle Huaxia Road, Shanghai, 201210, China.
| | - Jing Ren
- School of Physical Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, 393 Middle Huaxia Road, Shanghai, 201210, China.
| | - Zhengzhong Shao
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Department of Macromolecular Science, Laboratory of Advanced Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Li-Bo Jiang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, No. 180, Fenglin Road, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Shengjie Ling
- School of Physical Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, 393 Middle Huaxia Road, Shanghai, 201210, China.
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