Sustainable multiple- and multistimulus-shape-memory and self-healing elastomers with semi-interpenetrating network derived from biomass via bulk radical polymerization

Sustainable shape-memory and self-healing elastomers with semi-interpenetrating network were prepared by a simple, efficient, and green bulk radical polymerization of ethyl cellulose, furfural, and fatty-acid derived monomers. This approach could in situ one-pot form a semi-interpenetrating network elastomer with properties combining multiple shape-memory and self-healing under solvent-free conditions. These elastomers were found to possess excellent multiple-shape-memory properties toward temperature, water, THF, and methanol. Moreover, the multiple-shape-memory properties could assist the self-healing of these elastomers, which was triggered by heating. Self-healing behavior studies showed that the presence of linear polymers in these elastomers could significantly improve the self-healing performance. This work provides a facile, efficient, and green approach in a solvent-free system to design new generation sustainable, green, and functional materials.