The effect of flexible chain segment of hardener on stress relaxation,mechanical properties and self-healing of a dynamic epoxy network

The research utilized two dicarboxylic acid hardeners, distinguished by their differing degrees offlexibility, to form vitrimers with self-healing and stress relaxation properties. The investigationexplores the influence of the length of flexible chain segments on the stress relaxation, mechanicalproperties and toughness. The catalytic role of Zn²⁺ ions was essential in promoting dynamictransesterification reactions, enabling efficient stress relaxation and reprocessability. The hardenerwith greater flexibility demonstrated reduced tensile strength and modulus but enhanced toughnessand ductility due to the presence of flexible chain segments, which facilitated greater molecularmobility and dynamic bond exchange. This balance of properties makes these vitrimers particularlysuitable for applications demanding high flexibility, durability, and repairability.

کلیدواژه ها:

Green ، Sustainable ، and Biopolymers ، Epoxy ، Transesterification ، Vitrimers.