Polymers that Depolymerize from Head-to-Tail in the Solid State
Abstract
This proposal describes new approaches for designing polymers that are capable of depolymerizing in the solid state. This work builds on our previous effort (W911NF- 14-1-0232), but focuses on learning how to design new polymers. Likewise, the work will be conducted at a new location: Boise State University. The broad goal of W911NF-14-1-0232 is to impart macroscopic materials with the ability to respond autonomously to specific environmental (or applied) signals by changing shape, function, surface properties, optical properties, or by changing other physical or chemical characteristics that improve the performance of the material. In the ideal situation, the materials will respond only to trace levels of an applied signal, yet realize a global macroscopic change in properties. Likewise, often the preferred autonomous response is rapid (i.e., on time scales less than minutes, and ideally seconds or faster). Achieving global, rapid, macroscopic, autonomous changes in a material in response to trace levels of signal requires that the material amplify its response(s). Our approach (in Agreement Number W911NF-14-1-0232) to realizing this broad vision is to design soft materials that contain polymers that depolymerize continuously, completely, and cleanly from head to tail in response to a specific applied signal (Fig. 1, column 1). Complete depolymerization of a polymer provides an amplified change in the material, and will enable the material to be self-powered, and thus not tethered to electronics, batteries, or a particular location. Polymers of this type, however, have only recently emerged, and thus information for how to design these polymers is almost completely lacking. Moreover, even less is known for how to design polymers that depolymerize in the solid state in response to an applied signal, which is a critical and necessary attribute for realizing autonomous macroscopic materials. Thus, our focus in W911NF-14-1-0232 is to test several hypotheses for achieving selective, solid state depolymerization. Our aim is to learn the chemical features that are required for solid state depolymerization, and then to establish design strategies for creating future hea -to-tail depolymerizable polymers for use in autonomous, stimuli-responsive, soft materials.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Oct 17, 2018
- Source ID
- W911NF1710608
Entities
People
- Scott T. Phillips
Organizations
- Army Contracting Command
- Boise State University
- United States Army