Abstract

A spiropyran mechanophore (force-sensitive molecule), which is fluorescent in its mechanically activated state, is used to investigate swelling-induced mechanochemistry in cross-linked poly(methyl methacrylate). The spiropyran is incorporated as a cross-linker. A correlation is observed between solvent-induced polymer swelling and fluorescence intensity, suggesting that the forces during swelling are sufficient to drive the electrocyclic ring-opening of spiropyran to its colored and fluorescent merocyanine form. Control experiments and solvatochromic studies validate that activation is indeed due to swelling-induced mechanical forces and not solvent effects. Systematic studies varying solvents and cross-linking densities provide insight into how altering swelling parameters influences the mechanophore response at the molecular level.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)2690-2694
Number of pages5
JournalMacromolecules
Volume47
Issue number8
DOIs
StatePublished - Apr 22 2014

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Organic Chemistry
  • Polymers and Plastics
  • Inorganic Chemistry
  • Materials Chemistry

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