Chain Motion and Energy Variation of Dynamic Cross-Linked Polymers

Dynamic cross-linked polymers have garnered attention due to their recyclable nature. Research on constructing dynamic cross-linked polymers with various dynamic chemical bonds has achieved numerous outstanding outcomes. Nevertheless, studies on mechanisms such as polymer chains’ movement, energy transformation, and dissipation within the dynamic cross-linked network have been relatively scarce, which is the essential determinant for the ambient-temperature usage and high-temperature recycling characteristics of dynamic cross-linked polymers. This research uses the widely studied dynamic imine bonds as a representative to investigate dynamic cross-linked polymers. Through the utilization of rheological tests, the dynamic and static properties were tested and analyzed at the polymer chain level, explaining the mechanical property stability of dynamic cross-linked polymers during ambient-temperature service and the influence of dynamic performance on the energy dissipation mechanism, further clarifying the potential application mechanism in materials such as shock absorption. Simultaneously, it also demonstrated the polymer chain structure basis for their recycling.