In-situ localised alignment assisted salting-out enhanced ionogels with high strength, toughness and impact resistance

Zhentao Zhang, Min Sang (), Zimu Li, Yucheng Pan, Jianpeng Wu, Shilong Duan and Xinglong Gong ()
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Zhentao Zhang: University of Science and Technology of China (USTC)
Min Sang: University of Science and Technology of China (USTC)
Zimu Li: University of Science and Technology of China (USTC)
Yucheng Pan: University of Science and Technology of China (USTC)
Jianpeng Wu: University of Science and Technology of China (USTC)
Shilong Duan: University of Science and Technology of China (USTC)
Xinglong Gong: University of Science and Technology of China (USTC)

Nature Communications, 2025, vol. 16, issue 1, 1-11

Abstract: Abstract Ionic gels have promise in a range of applications but are limited in extreme environments. Here, we report a method for preparation of an ionic gel with improved mechanical properties, through the formation of a micro-orientated structure and increased crystallisation and aggregation of polymer chains. The resulting ionic gels exhibit tunable mechanical properties, including high strength (18.1–62.2 MPa), toughness (56.8–123.7 MJ m−3), modulus (18.8–187.8 MPa), and excellent impact resistance. These gels exhibit greater energy dissipation than Kevlar under comparable impact velocities. Molecular dynamics simulations reveal that the localised alignment assisted salting-out process enhances hydrogen bonding and chain interactions, improving structural stability. This strategy is also effective in other polymer systems, such as PAAM hydrogels, demonstrating broad applicability. Overall, this approach greatly enhances the mechanical and protective performance of ionic gels for demanding applications.

Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-63148-0

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