A Waterborne Epoxy Vitrimer: Enabling Moisture‐Driven Actuation, Continuous Moist‐Electric Generation, and Water‐Assisted Degradation
Jianqiao Wu, Yan Zhang, Dongxu Pei, Yaning Ma, Zixuan Wang, Qiuyang Ma, Jianhua Tang, Ousheng Zhang, Jun Hu
Abstract
Abstract The integration of multiple hydroxyl structures presents a robust strategy for designing epoxy vitrimers based on transesterification reactions (TERs), enabling the realization of optimal dynamic properties. Nevertheless, significant challenges persist in achieving eco‐friendly synthesis, hydrophilic‐related functionalities, and sustainable degradation. Here, a catalyst‐free waterborne epoxy vitrimer is developed by curing 1,4‐butanediol diglycidyl ether with natural L ‐tartaric acid ( L ‐TA), effectively addressing these challenges simultaneously. Harnessing the synergistic effects of multiple hydroxyl groups and the neighboring group participation effect imparted by L ‐TA, the resulting vitrimer exhibits rapid stress relaxation ( τ * = 270 s at 190 °C) and undergoes complete degradation in 95 °C pure water within 6 h. Furthermore, the abundant hydroxyl groups on polymer chains facilitate its function as a moisture‐responsive actuator, achieving a crimping speed of 0.32 mm s −1 . Building on this, a moist‐electric generator is engineered by utilizing the vitrimer as a matrix for ambient vapor collection and subsequent conversion into electrical energy. This device sustains a stable voltage output (0.42–0.50 V) under ambient conditions for 60 h, with capabilities for series amplification and capacitor charging. This study maximizes the potential of hydroxyl‐rich TERs‐based epoxy vitrimers, paving the way for the advancement and practical implementation of sustainable polymers.