Novel self-healing commodity copolymers based on 2-ethylhexyl acrylate

NU2023-240

INVENTORS

• John Torkelson*
• Tong Wang

SHORT DESCRIPTION
This invention describes a new class of random copolymers that exhibit autonomous self-healing behavior at room temperature. The copolymers, derived entirely from commodity comonomers including 2-ethylhexyl acrylate, fully recover their material properties after damage.

BACKGROUND
The field of polymer science continues to face challenges in developing materials that can reliably restore their mechanical properties after damage without external intervention. Conventional copolymers typically require added stimuli or chemical modifications to achieve self-healing. Recent advances have leveraged commodity comonomers, with this invention focusing on harnessing van der Waals interactions through 2-ethylhexyl acrylate to overcome these hurdles under ambient conditions.

ABSTRACT
The invention details a formulation of random copolymers that autonomously self-heal from cuts and full breaks by re-establishing interdigitation of ethylhexyl side groups derived from different comonomer units. The restoration process occurs under ambient conditions over a period dictated by the polymer composition and glass transition temperature, ensuring near complete recovery of the original material properties. This technology employs a straightforward approach by utilizing widely available commodity comonomers to formulate versatile materials suitable for a wide range of applications. Its composition and performance characteristics make it attractive for commercialization in sectors where material durability and low maintenance are critical.

APPLICATIONS

• Sealants and pressure sensitive adhesives: Suitable for use in bonding applications with improved durability.
• Cosmetic products: Can be integrated into formulations requiring resilient polymer matrices.
• Elastomers: Provides enhanced longevity in flexible material applications.
• Painting/coating materials: Ideal for coatings that benefit from self-healing properties to extend service life.

ADVANTAGES

• Autonomous self-healing: Restores integrity at room temperature without external stimuli.
• Commodity-based formulation: Utilizes widely available comonomers without the need for extensive chemical modifications.
• Versatile composition range: Adaptable to various molecular weights and compositions.
• Cost-effective scalability: Leverages established industrial materials to potentially reduce production expenses.

PUBLICATIONS
John Torkelson et al, Random Copolymers Based on 2-Ethylhexyl Acrylate Exhibit Unusual Glass Transition Breadth and Facile Autonomous Self-Healing over a Broad Composition Range, MacroMolecular Rapid Communications, 2024

IP STATUS
US Patent Pending