Researchers at Colorado State University have developed a customizable material network that easily shifts between a liquid and a solid. This specialized plastic alternative bonds tightly using water but can completely rebuild its internal structure when moisture is introduced. The technology is highly adaptable and can be dried into diverse forms like films, powders, and porous foams. It offers a versatile, eco-friendly framework capable of self-repairing regular wear and tear.
Traditional interpenetrating polymer networks and resins require harsh external triggers, such as intense ultraviolet light or highly acidic conditions, to modify their structure or initiate reversal. This technology introduces a highly modular network that circumvents these demanding requirements by utilizing reversible hydrogen bonding in an aqueous environment. By eliminating the need for complex additives or restrictive environments, this framework introduces a simple mechanism for structural manipulation. Furthermore, the small molecule composition can be altered to integrate distinct physical behaviors, yielding a responsive material capable of addressing specific engineering challenges.
The technology consists of a modular, reversible interpenetrating small molecule network composed of polycarboxylate and polyethylene oxide small molecules. When combined in water, these distinct small molecule blocks crosslink via hydrogen bonds to yield a functional viscoelastic fluid. Upon vitrification, the evaporation of water prompts the crosslinking network to collapse, transitioning the substance into a transparent, amorphous solid coating.
The structural and mechanical traits of the resulting solid coating are highly dependent on the parameters of the vitrification process. By shifting the pressure and temperature during moisture extraction, the final morphology of the network changes, allowing the creation of thin films, flowable inks, gels, powders, and foams with custom porosity. Physical characteristics can be advanced further by altering the polymer lengths or modifying the polycarboxylate composition to embed targeted traits directly into the coating framework.
• Operates reversibly using only water, eliminating the need for UV light or acids.
• Possesses inherent self-healing capabilities through the reformation of internal crosslinks.
• Morphs into a wide variety of physical shapes, thicknesses, and structural forms.
• Allows adjustments to viscoelastic behaviors by varying shape and length.
• Supports secondary properties, transforming into an electrically conductive, fluorescent, or magnetic material.
• Combines polymer-like strength with rapid dissolution by utilizing small-molecule building blocks to achieve the tunable mechanical control of traditional polymers while eliminating issues like slow diffusion and lagging dissolution rates.
• Agricultural Materials: Advanced seed coatings, active seed tapes, and eco-friendly packaging.
• Medical Treatments: Controlled release drug matrices, tablet binders, and specialized coatings for gel capsules.
• Electronics Engineering: Specialized components for batteries, circuitry, and fluorescent lamps.
• Industrial and Consumer Goods: General adhesives, industrial cements, magnetic paints, and protective structural coatings.
Available for Exclusive Licensing
TRL: 3
US 10,487,181
US 10,875,970
Scott Compel
Chris Ackerson
O Andrea Wong
Jessy McGowan
Jessy.McGowan@colostate.edu
970-491-7100