2026-10-13T11:05:21Z https://api.figshare.com/v2/oai

oai:figshare.com:article/32639958 2026-10-01T16:35:31Z portal_1172 item_type_8 month_year_10_2026

Highly stretchable conductors from bio-based self-healing thermoplastic polyurethanes and conductive nanoparticles Thomas Griggs (24169002) PUREID: 609664267 polyurethane disulphide self-healing stretchable conductors Recent environmental issues have increased the necessity for polymers to have a reduced environmental footprint, potentially through means such as utilising bio-based monomers or providing the polymer with a self-healing ability. Circuits with the ability to undergo stretching have been a recent subject of investigation due to the significant growth in the field of wearable technology or strain sensors. In this thesis, novel bio-based self-healing thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPUs) were synthesised, characterised, and optimised. The development of an environmentally friendly water-based conductive ink was investigated. The use of both in manufacturing stretchable conductors and strain sensors for wearable technology was evaluated. Overall, the novel bio-based self-healing TPUs and water-based silver inks developed in this thesis exhibit high potential for use in the field of stretchable conductors, strain sensors, wearable technology and elastic fibres (textiles) at a much lower environmental footprint, through a prolonged lifespan and green monomers, versus existing materials. This work also offers materials and processing methods for future sustainable development of other smart devices and technologies.<br><br><i>Thesis is embargoed until 31 December 2027.</i><br><br><br> 2026-10-01T16:35:31Z Text Thesis 10.17034/32639958.v1 https://figshare.com/articles/thesis/Highly_stretchable_conductors_from_bio-based_self-healing_thermoplastic_polyurethanes_and_conductive_nanoparticles/32639958 All Rights Reserved Open Access after 2027-12-31