Dynamic Crosslinking and Multifunctional Thermoset Polymers

Traditional thermoset polymers are renowned for their robust mechanical properties and chemical resistance due to permanent covalent crosslinking, yet their inability to be reprocessed or recycled poses sustainability challenges. The advent of dynamic crosslinking introduces reversible covalent bonds such as Diels–Alder adducts, disulfide bridges, and transesterification networks, imparting reprocessability, self-healing, and recyclability while retaining structural integrity. Moreover, integrating dynamic motifs with functional fillers or tailored macromolecular architectures enables multifunctionalities including stimuli-responsiveness, shape memory, and flame retardancy. Despite these advances, several critical gaps persist. First, the introduction of dynamic bonds often compromises thermal stability, creep resistance, or long-term durability, limiting practical deployment. Second, the mechanistic understanding of how dynamic bond kinetics interplay with network topology and filler dispersion remains fragmented. Third, the scalable synthesis routes that balance dynamic character with cost-effectiveness are underexplored. Furthermore, the translation of multifunctional dynamic thermosets from proof-of-concept demonstrations to industrially viable materials is hindered by the absence of standardized characterization protocols and predictive structure–property models. Addressing these shortcomings is essential to unlock the full potential of dynamic covalent chemistry in next-generation sustainable polymers.This Research Topic aims to consolidate recent advances in dynamic crosslinking design, characterization methodologies, and the synergistic incorporation of functional fillers or responsive moieties to achieve stimuli-triggered adaptation, shape memory, and even conductive or flame-retardant functions. As application scenarios in aerospace, soft robotics, wearable electronics, and green construction grow increasingly sophisticated, single-function materials can no longer meet the stringent requirements for lightweighting, durability, environmental adaptability, and multi-scenario compatibility. Dynamic covalent networks, by virtue of their reversible bond exchange and topological rearrangement, offer a unique platform to integrate mutually constrained functionalities within a single matrix, such as simultaneous mechanical reinforcement and electrical conductivity via anisotropic conductive pathways, programmable shape transformation coupled with self-healing capability, or intrinsic flame retardancy without compromising recyclability. Necessitated by this escalating demand for multifunctional integration, the Research Topic further solicits contributions that elucidate the interplay between dynamic bond kinetics, filler-matrix interfacial engineering, and synergistic functional mechanisms. By gathering interdisciplinary efforts from synthetic chemistry, polymer physics, and materials engineering, we seek to establish robust design principles that reconcile reprocessability with high performance, thereby advancing sustainable, intelligent thermosets tailored for real-world deployment in aerospace, electronics, and construction sectors.This Research Topic aims to showcase cutting-edge advances in dynamic crosslinking chemistries and multifunctional thermoset polymers, with a strong emphasis on bridging fundamental understanding, materials design, and application-driven performance. Specific themes of interest include, but are not limited to: -Dynamic Crosslinking Chemistries and Network Design-Multifunctional Integration via Filler or Macromolecular Engineering-Characterization, Modeling, and Predictive Design-Sustainable Manufacturing and Application-Oriented Development Topic editors: Xiaming Feng, Hongyu Yang, Yao Yuan Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/78818/dynamic-crosslinking-and-multifunctional-thermoset-polymers