Shape-Editable and Healable Polyethylene-Based Ionomers for Flexible Supercapacitor Substrates

Abstract

Integrating shape-editing and healing capabilities in a deformable material is one of the critical challenges for achieving wearable electronic devices with high durability and reliability. In this study, EMAA-Na ionomers were synthesized by partially neutralizing EMAA (poly(ethylene-co-methacrylic acid)) with sodium hydroxide via a solution method. Notably, the EMAA-Na30% samples with higher neutralization degree and more ionic bonds exhibit superior mechanical properties, self-healing, and shape-memory properties. Subsequently, a symmetric supercapacitor was fabricated using the flexible conductive substrate based on EMAA-Na ionomers loaded with CNTs and the electrolyte composed of poly(vinyl alcohol)/polyacrylamide (PVA/PAM) hydrogel. The entire supercapacitor also exhibits shape-editing and self-healing capabilities. This study provides valuable guidance for the fabrication of high-performance supercapacitors by shape-editable and healable materials and opens up the possibilities for the use of smart polymer materials in potential applications of flexible wearable electronics, soft actuators, and robots.