Versatile functionalization of polymeric soft materials by implanting various types of dynamic cross-links

The present focus review describes functionalization methods for polymeric materials based on the use of various types of cross-links, such as supramolecular cross-links, photocross-links, and associative dynamic covalent bonded cross-links. First, the enhancement and precise tuning of the thermal and mechanical properties of polymeric materials are described; then, the design and physical property tuning of functional materials based on a special type of cross-linked material with associative dynamic covalent bonded cross-links, known as vitrimers, are demonstrated. This review article provides useful hints for the preparation of functional cross-linked materials, which are especially important in modern and future societies considering the huge demand for durable materials with versatile physical properties. The functionalization methods of polymeric materials using various types of cross-links, such as supramolecular cross-links, photo cross-links, and associative dynamic covalent bonded cross-links, were described. First, the enhancement and precise tuning of the thermal and mechanical properties are demonstrated in the supramolecular cross-link-based and photo cross-link-based designs. In the latter section, the design and physical property tuning of functional materials based on a special type of cross-linked materials with associative dynamic covalent bonded cross-links, known as vitrimers, are demonstrated.