Self-healable Poly(dimethyl siloxane) Elastomers Based on Host-guest Complexation between Methylated β-Cyclodextrin and Adamantane

Recently, it has been revealed that cyclodextrin derivatives undergo host-guest complexation in hydrophobic carbon-based elastomers as well as aqueous environments, exhibiting self-healing properties. In the present report, cyclodextrin derivatives exhibited self-healing properties based on host-guest complexation in poly(dimethyl siloxane)-based materials. The cut surfaces were rejoined after being kept at room temperature for 24 hours. Despite remaining problems with healing efficiency, the cyclodextrin-based supramolecular cross-links contribute to the self-healing properties. We have achieved self-healing and enhanced the mechanical properties of poly(dimethyl siloxane) (PDMS) through host-guest chemistry between cyclodextrin and adamantane as reversible cross-linkers. Unlike chemically cross-linked materials, PDMS with reversible cross-links was rejoined when the cut surfaces were reattached and was stretchable to more than 25%.