Large-scale Conformational Changes of Diindole Functional Groups Driven by Cation-π Interactions and the Toughening Mechanism of Thermosets

Abstract

This is described that a new concept for the design of toughening supramolecular thermosets by incorporating diindole groups, which are functionalized via cation-π interactions in covalently crosslinked networks. Large-scale conformational changes of the diindole functional groups could occur under external forces, endowing the thermosets with excellent toughening properties.