Synthetic polymers functionalized with mussel-inspired catechols have been shown to exhibit self-healing and adhesive properties, mediated by metal chelation, that are much needed in biomedical and environmental applications. Now, a metal-free approach to complete polymer self-healing underwater mediated by extensive hydrogen bonding in catechol-functionalized polyacrylates is reported.
- B. Kollbe Ahn
- Dong Woog Lee
- J. Herbert Waite