Synergistic Covalent-and-supramolecular Polymers

Covalent polymers exhibit stable properties but lack dynamic behavior. Supramolecular polymers are more dynamic yet deficient in mechanical performance. Inspired by the mechanisms of supramolecular polymers in biological systems, these two classes of polymers were combined within a unified system and efficiently linked. This integration not only fused but amplified the advantages of both, resulting in the synergistic covalent-and-supramolecular polymers (CSPs). In this chapter, this unique class of CSPs is introduced, with the underlying concept and features outlined. Current polymerization strategies employed to construct CSPs are further summarized, and their structures and properties are explored. The performance advantages and structure–property relationships are discussed in detail. The CSPs system addresses the inherent limitations of single polymer systems, advancing the practical application of supramolecular polymers and offering a novel pathway for the development of intelligent polymer materials with enhanced mechanical properties and dynamic responsiveness.