Design and Synthesis of Tailored Organic Units Capable of Acting as Mechanophores for Advanced Polymeric Materials ^†

Modern polymers are evolving into multifunctional systems with highly sophisticated behavior, often termed “smart” materials due to their ability to respond to specific stimuli. Mechanophores are generally force-responsive molecules that have greater interest in the daily use of polymeric materials. Mechanoresponsive polymers are particularly attractive as they undergo molecular-level conformational changes and selective bond scission when subjected to mechanical stress. This enables productive, reversible chemical transformations rather than nonspecific degradation.

Dynamic covalent bonds, such as the furan–maleimide Diels–Alder (DA) adduct, play a crucial role in synthetic chemistry, and are now expanding into advanced polymer materials. Among various mechanophores, furan–maleimide adducts are particularly attractive due to their low reaction barrier, reversible bond scission, and efficient stress absorption. Unlike others, DA adducts enable controlled, reversible bond breaking and reforming, making them ideal for self-healing materials.

We aim to develop a novel furan–maleimide-based mechanophore by functionalizing it with different mercaptan groups under simplified reaction conditions. This newly designed mechanophore will be incorporated into polymers such as PMA (polymethyl acrylate), ensuring its integration into the polymer network.

To evaluate its performance, the mechanophore will be subjected to various material tests, including tensile strength, stress, and strain under mechanical force. The goal is to confirm its ability to undergo reversible bond scission when subjected to mechanical stress, in view of potential use as “smart materials” enabler.