A stretchable and healable elastomer with shape memory capability based on multiple hydrogen bonds

Abstract

Although a wide range of self-healing materials have been reported by researchers, it is still a challenge to endow exceptional mechanical properties and shape memory characteristics simultaneously in a single material. Inspired by the structure of natural silk, herein, we have adopted a simple synthetic method to prepare a kind of elastomer (HM-PUs) with stiff, healable and shape memory capabilities assisted by multiple hydrogen bonds. The self-healing elastomer exhibits a maximum tensile strength of 39 MPa, toughness of 111.65 MJ m⁻³ and self-healing efficiency of 96%. Moreover, the recuperative efficiency of shape memory could reach 100%. The fundamental study of HM-PUs will facilitate the development of flexible electronics and medical materials.