Healable Polymer Systems

New healable polymer networks will be developed by utilisation of a supramolecular chemistry approach. This strategy will involve the synthesis and characterisation of new low molecular weight oligomers which are , in turn, functionalised with molecular receptor groups. The oligomers will self-assemble via the molecular receptors to yield the desired polymer networks. The healable characteristics of these networks will be assessed via a combination of microscopy, mechanical testing and rheology. The focus of these studies is to discover and develop new healable coatings for use in cables and pipes.