A readily self-healing and recyclable silicone elastomer via boron–nitrogen noncovalent crosslinking

Abstract

A linear silicone elastomer was synthesized via a one-pot and noncatalytic aza-Michael reaction. Noncovalent boron–nitrogen coordination bonds formed the reversible crosslinking network. The formation of the elastomer was confirmed using FT-IR, XPS, and scanning electron micrographs. The prepared material could repair spontaneously and rapidly without any external energy, and the good original mechanical properties were maintained. The reversible B–N coordination bonds were used for the first time in self-healing, and the elastomer could be remolded.