Flexible iontronics with super stretchability, toughness and enhanced conductivity based on collaborative design of high-entropy topology and multivalent ion-dipole interactions.

ABSTRACT

All-solid-state ionic conductive elastomers (ASSICEs) are emerging as a promising alternative to hydrogels and ionogels in flexible electronics. Nevertheless, the synthesis of ASSICEs with concomitant mechanical robustness, superior ionic conductivity, and cost-effective recyclability poses a formidable challenge, primarily attributed to the inherent contradiction between mechanical strength and ionic conductivity. Herein, we present a collaborative design of high-entropy topological network and multivalent ion-dipole interaction for ASSICEs, and successfully mitigate the contradiction between mechanical robustness and ionic conductivity. Benefiting from the synergistic effect of this design, the coordination, de-coordination, and intrachain transfer of Li+ are effectively boomed. The resultant ASSICEs display exceptional mechanical robustness (breaking strength 7.45 MPa, fracture elongation 2621%, toughness 107.19 MJ m-3) and impressive ionic conductivity (1.15 × 10-2 S m-1 at 25 °C). Furthermore, these ASSICEs exhibit excellent environmental stability (fracture elongation exceeding 1400% at 50 °C or -60 °C) and recyclability. Significantly, the application of these ASSICEs in a strain sensor highlights their potential in various fields, including human-interface communication, aerospace vacuum measurement, and medical balloon monitoring.