Synergistic electronic-topological strategy enables spatiotemporal control of covalent adaptable networks

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Authors: Hongfei Huang, Lijie Sun, Yalin Zhang, Luzhi Zhang, Yang Wang, Wei Sun, Zhengwei You
Cited by: 8
References: 46

Abstract

Covalent adaptable networks (CANs) hold considerable promise for combining the advantages of thermosets and thermoplastics. However, their use in high-speed melt spinning is restricted by insufficient dynamic bond reactivity at processing temperatures and the mismatch between network rearrangement kinetics and industrial requirements. Here, we establish a spatiotemporally regulated platform based on internally catalyzed oxime-urethane chemistry within a four-arm cross-linking topology. Neighboring urea groups provide internal catalysis that greatly accelerates oxime-urethane dissociation at 110°C, improving melt fluidity. During extrusion, the slight temperature drop rapidly drives bond recombination within the four-arm topology, while hydrogen bonds deliver immediate reinforcement to retain melt strength. This synergistic design enables continuous melt spinning at 100 meters per minute over a short 10-centimeter distance. The resulting fibers combine high mechanical performance (tensile strength: 261.7 megapascals; toughness: 630.1 megajoules per cubic meter) with excellent stretchability, self-healing, and recyclability. This molecular engineering approach overcomes the processing-performance tradeoff in CANs, offering a scalable pathway toward high-performance, sustainable polymers for industrial manufacturing.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Polymer composites and self-healing Hydrogels: synthesis properties applications Advanced Sensor and Energy Harvesting Materials

Publication details

Journal / source
Science Advances
Publisher
American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)
Volume
12
Issue
12
Pages
eaea6321–eaea6321
Publication date
18 March 2026
Language
EN