On the Welding of Vitrimers: Chemistry, Mechanics and Applications

摘要

Linear chains in thermoplastics make them relatively weak in performance butinherently weldable and recyclable. By contrast, thermosets with permanentlycrosslinked networks possess outstanding mechanical performance, thermal,and chemical stability, but are unweldable and unrecyclable. In the lastdecade, a kind of thermoplastics-like thermosets termed as vitrimer has beendeveloped with extensive applications, in which welding of vitrimers plays acentral and fundamental role. Herein, we present the current state of the artof the welding of vitrimers and discuss the welding of vitrimers from a broadpicture of chemistry, physics, and mechanics: i) chemistry and mechanics ofthe welding of vitrimers; ii) applicability of the mechanical assessmentmethods for the welding of vitrimers; iii) design principles and implementstrategies to the welding of vitrimers; iv) effects of welding conditions on thewelding strength and toughness; and v) applications to the adhesion ofchemically inert materials. Finally, advantages, challenges, and openquestions to the welding of vitrimers are highlighted, and future opportunitiesin chemistry, mechanics, design of tough welding, artificial intelligence aidedprogramming of welding technology, mechanical assessment standard, andso on are discussed. The development of vitrimer welding would fusedisciplines and make transformative impact in polymer industry.