Much recent attention has been devoted to polymeric networks and gels featuring a topology that is not fixed but can change via transient associative or otherwise dynamic bonds, possibly as a result of an external trigger. This includes for instance vitrimers, where a bond-conserving (isodesmic) exchange reaction is employed to impart processability and recyclability, or self-healing polymer materials, where new network connections are established after a damage process. The chemical implementations of transient bonds vary widely, and include hydrogen bonding, either directed or as part of "sticker clusters", ionic domains, metal-ligand interactions, photoswitches, attractive interactions with nanoparticles, and many more. On the physics side, a salient feature is that the dynamic network structure is expected to be able to equilibrate, subject to a given scaffold structure and the constraints arising from the nature, density and spatial distribution of the labile bonds. We thus expect common features, but also a substantial variability and non-universality of sample properties, where the rheological behavior is of central relevance.
The research topic themed "Dynamic and reconfigurable polymer networks" will provide a platform featuring an up-to-date overview of the field, including new materials, physical characterization and theoretical approaches. We welcome the submission of original research and of reviews covering specific aspects.
Much recent attention has been devoted to polymeric networks and gels featuring a topology that is not fixed but can change via transient associative or otherwise dynamic bonds, possibly as a result of an external trigger. This includes for instance vitrimers, where a bond-conserving (isodesmic) exchange reaction is employed to impart processability and recyclability, or self-healing polymer materials, where new network connections are established after a damage process. The chemical implementations of transient bonds vary widely, and include hydrogen bonding, either directed or as part of "sticker clusters", ionic domains, metal-ligand interactions, photoswitches, attractive interactions with nanoparticles, and many more. On the physics side, a salient feature is that the dynamic network structure is expected to be able to equilibrate, subject to a given scaffold structure and the constraints arising from the nature, density and spatial distribution of the labile bonds. We thus expect common features, but also a substantial variability and non-universality of sample properties, where the rheological behavior is of central relevance.
The research topic themed "Dynamic and reconfigurable polymer networks" will provide a platform featuring an up-to-date overview of the field, including new materials, physical characterization and theoretical approaches. We welcome the submission of original research and of reviews covering specific aspects.
