(717c) The Complex Role of Entanglements and Associations in Supramolecular Self-Healing

Supramolecular networks exhibit complex rheological behavior including the intrinsic ability to self-heal. While the polymer physics involved in the healing process are well understood, experimental validation of these theories are few. In this work we explore supramolecular networks containing poly-(n-buytl acrylate) (PnBA), poly-(acrylic acid) (PAA), poly-(methoxyethyl acrylate) (PMEA) and 2-ureido-4[1H]-pyrimidinone bearing methacrylate (UPyMA) using measurements of extensional rheology. Using these model systems, we show the complex role of both entanglement dynamics and association dynamics on self-healing recovery. Additionally we show the importance of rheology and experimental design when probing healing phenomena. This work gives a broader understanding of the fundamental variables involved in intrinsic self-healing increasing the ability to design self-healing systems with tuneable healing performance.