Synthesis and characterization of reversible and self-healable networks based on acylhydrazone groups

Abstract

A series of seven dynamic covalent networks based on pentaerythritol tetra(benzohydrazide) and 1,10-decanediol dibenzaldehyde were prepared in N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF). The equilibrium degree of swelling in DMF and the sol fraction displayed a minimum at or near the hydrazide-benzaldehyde stoichiometric ratio. The composition of the sol fraction changed according to the feed composition, with the dibenzaldehyde-rich preparations exhibiting extractables composed of star oligomers based on tetra(benzohydrazide) cores. Finally, network reversibility and self-healing were demonstrated in the presence of acid. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry.