Polymer Mechanochemistry: Where Is It Going?

Abstract

Mechanical force can induce and perturb chemical reactivity. By embedding force-responsive molecules, known as mechanophores, within polymer chains, forces can be precisely applied at specific locations within the molecules. Significant advances in polymer mechanochemistry over the past two decades have enhanced our understanding of how to design and control mechanical reactivity of molecular structures, enabled new types of (macro)molecular transformations that are inaccessible via thermal or photochemical manifolds, and led to the development of stress-sensing and toughening materials. In this Perspective, we aim to highlight significant developments in polymer mechanochemistry, discuss the current limitations, and offer our insights into where this dynamic field is headed.