Inspired by spider silk: Ultra-tough and exceptionally stretchable coating

Developing intelligent materials with integrated ultra-high-performance damage monitoring and repair functions is of paramount significance for broadening the application of the latest generation of smart materials. Now, inspired by spider silk and living skin, researchers have embedded multiple hydrogen bonding motifs and rigid alicyclic groups with attached damage monitoring sensors in bio-based polyurethanes to create bio-based elastomers with exceptional mechanical properties combined with repair and damage monitoring functionalities.

Ultra-high mechanical performance coating materials

The elastomer possesses exceptional toughness (583 MJ·m⁻³) and tensile strength (43 MPa), the elongation at break point is 2600 %, and self-healing (86 % at 60 °C for 6 h), environmental adaptability, and recyclability, thereby achieving the preparation of ultra-tough self-healing elastomeric materials. Simultaneously, the internally embedded sensors enable the localisation and monitoring of damage through visually observable means, such as quenching and discolouration. The elastomer recovers well in 3.5 wt% NaCl solution and provides corrosion protection (9.23 × 10⁷ Ω·cm² even after 50 days of immersion), achieving the integration of ultra-high mechanical performance coating materials with damage warning and repair functions.

The study has been published in Progress in Organic Coatings, Volume 182, September 2023.

Reading tip

The EC Tech Report Bio-based Coatings is a hand-picked compilation of all the key aspects concerning bio-based coatings, offering the latest technical developments. Leading R&D experts present their various binder developments, how binders can be produced sustainably and also how the performance of your coatings can be optimised. Exclusive market insights and data as well as an impressive package of digital bonus material round off this Tech Report.