Synthesis and Creep-Recovery Behavior of a Neat Viscoelastic Polymeric Network Formed through Electrostatic Interactions

Abstract

The preparation of a supramolecular polymer ionic network and its rheological properties are described. The polymer ionic network is formed between a dicationic phosphonium ionic liquid and the carboxylate residues of poly(acrylic acid). Upon substituting the dicationic phosphonium for a monocationic phosphonium or polyacrylate for poly(vinyl alcohol), the network is lost. The viscosities of the materials are highly dependent on the composition of this ionic network. Creep-recovery experiments show the polymer ionic network exhibits viscoelasticity.