A class of polytriazole metallogels via CuAAC polymerization: preparation and properties

Abstract

A class of coordination-driven polytriazole metallogels were prepared via a copper(I)-catalyzed azide–alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC) polymerization in a one-pot process. The properties of the obtained metallogels were characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectra, scanning electron microscopy, rheology and self-healing tests, etc. The coordination interactions between Cu⁺ and the polytriazoles were investigated through nuclear magnetic resonance, differential scanning calorimetry, and X-ray diffraction analysis techniques. The metallogels possess good thermal stability and exhibit strong self-healing abilities. The coordination interactions contribute to the physical cross-linking and interchain π–π aromatic stacking of polytriazole macromolecules, which result in network structure induced gelation.