Functionalized Ionogels with self-healing performance: Material design, chemistry aspects, applications, and future prospects

Abstract

Nowadays, functionalized ionogels have attracted considerable research attention because of their superior benefits including excellent mechanical properties, conductivity, transparency, stretchability, adhesivity, biocompatibility, recyclability, shape memory, 3D printability, and self-healability. The self-healing performance implements the ability to autonomously repair the damaged ionogels through the covalent or non-covalent reversible bonds without any external intervention at ambient conditions. The healing strategy is influenced by the type of polymer, ionic liquid, and synthesis procedures. The present review introduces the polymers and ionic liquids (ILs) for the preparation of multifunctional ionogels with the focus on self-healing ability. Therefore, the diverse functionalities of ionogels are introduced, followed by the deep delve with strategies of preparation of self-healing ionogels. The potential uses of functionalized self-healing ionogels in wearable electronics and sensors, solid-state electrolytes, triboelectric nanogenerators, lubricating materials, and transistor devices are also discussed. Finally, the developmental prospects of the new generations of functionalized self-healing ionogels for future research are presented. The current review provides insights into the development of a novel generation of material with excellent characteristics for future academic research, and paves the path toward practical applications.