Combination of polyethylenimine and vanillin-based benzoxazine as a straightforward self-healable system with excellent film-forming ability

Abstract

This study introduces a straightforward and efficient route for synthesizing self-healable polybenzoxazine networks by utilizing dynamic imine bond exchanges under mild conditions. The process involves combining polyethylenimines with aldehyde-functional bisbenzoxazine, which was produced from vanillin, using a Sc(OTf)3 catalyst and subjecting them to moderate heating at 150 °C. Remarkably, the resulting polybenzoxazine films exhibit good self-healing capabilities at low temperatures and pressures, without requiring any additional additives to facilitate the healing process. The degree of recovery was assessed through tensile tests, while rheologic measurements were utilized to analyze stress relaxation and activation energy of dynamic bonding, providing insights into the self-healing process. Additionally, comprehensive spectral characterizations and investigations of thermal behaviors were conducted to gain a deeper understanding of the material’s properties and performance. Moreover, the polybenzoxazine networks demonstrated enhanced hydrolysis stability compared to conventional imine-based systems, benefiting from the specific Mannich linkages and inherent hydrophobic nature of polybenzoxazines.