The Latest Advances in Mechanically Robust Self-Healing Polyurea Based on Dynamic Chemistry

Abstract

Polyureas are widely used in many fields such as civil, industry, and defense due to their excellent performance and structural adjustable properties. The development of self-healing polyurea materials with high strength and toughness, key connotations of their advanced applications, is both fascinating and challenging because these properties are associated with conflicting structural features, making it difficult to optimize these contradictory properties in a single material. In this review, the relationship between polyurea structure and performance is discussed, and the design strategy of self-healing polyurea networks based on dynamic interactions that allow for balancing high mechanical performance and repairability is delineated from a molecular design point of view. Lastly, a summary of the potential applications of polyurea in the fields of sensing, protective coatings, and recycling, as well as possible future challenges, is presented.