Self‐Healing Photochromic Elastomer Composites for Wearable UV‐Sensors

Photochromic materials have recently received strong interest for the development of wearable ultraviolet (UV) detection technologies because they do not require electronic components, resulting in systems and devices that change color upon irradiation. However, their implementation technology has lightweight, compliance, durability (especially under mechanical stress) requirements are limited by materials’ properties. Here, a self-healing photochromic elastomer composite (photoPUSH) consisting phosphomolybdic acid (PMA) polyurethane dynamic network with reversible disulfide bonds (PUSH) is presented. The unique properties polymer matrix enable multiple complementary functions UV-sensing composite: i) photochromism via electron donor groups without requiring additional dopants, ii) stretchability elastomeric properties, iii) healing extreme damage bonds, iv) multimaterial integration adhesive PhotoPUSH composites exhibit excellent durability, tunable sensing range, no loss performance stress severe damage, as well underwater environments (waterproof). Leveraging these soft, portable, photoPUSH-based developed applications environmental monitoring, packaging, healthcare (including skin-mounted, textile-mounted, wristband devices) challenging to different skin types.