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A Tough Monolithic?Integrated Triboelectric Bioplastic Enabled by Dynamic Covalent Chemistry

To solve the problem of mismatch at the dielectric–conductive layer interface in green electronics, this study utilizes dynamic covalent chemistry to synthesize a tough monolithic?integrated triboelectric bioplastic. The triboelectric bioplastic has tensile strength (87.4 MPa) and toughness (33.3 MJ m?3) and is noncracking after being subjected to a tensile force of 10 000 times its own weight.Electronic waste is a growing threat to the global environment and human health, raising particular concerns. Triboelectric devices synthesized from sustainable and degradable materials are a promising electronic alternative, but the mechanical mismatch at the interface between the polymer substrate and the electrodes remains unresolved in practical applications. This study uses the sulfhydryl silanization reaction and the chemical selectivity and site specificity of the thiol–disulfide exchange reaction in dynamic covalent chemistry to prepare a tough monolithic?integrated triboelectric bioplastic. The stress is dissipated by covalent bond adaptation to the interface interaction, which makes the polymer dielectric layer to the conductive layer have a good interface adhesion effect (220.55 kPa). The interfacial interlocking of the polymer substrate with the conductive layer gives the triboelectric bioplastic excellent tensile strength (87.4 MPa) and fracture toughness (33.3 MJ m?3). Even when subjected to a tension force of 10 000 times its weight, it still maintains a stable triboelectric output with no visible cracks. This study provides new insights into the design of reliable and environmentally friendly self?powered devices, which is significant for the development of flexible wearable electronics.

Publication date: 10/01/2024

Advanced Materials

      

This project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant agreement No 870292.