The Polymer Society of Korea

Abstract

Thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPUs) are widely used in advanced applications, yet their performance is constrained by the limited diversity of conventional soft segments. Here, we present a new TPU design strategy based on α,ω-hydroxyl end-functionalized polyacrylates synthesized via visible-light-driven photoiniferter polymerization. This defect-free approach enables precise control over polymer architecture and functionality. Blending these polyacrylates with conventional polyols yields TPU elastomers with exceptional toughness and intrinsic self-healing behavior. In addition, photo-crosslinkable acrylic units impart photopatternability while maintaining excellent elastomeric performance. This platform expands the soft-segment design space and enables multifunctional, processable TPU materials.