Layer-by-layer techniques incorporating upcycled TPEE: from waste to conductive, multi-responsive, self-healable, and highly-stretchable electronics

• Published in: Journal of materials chemistry. A, Materials for energy and sustainability Vol. 13; no. 25; pp. 1985 - 19863
• Main Authors: Chang, Chia-Wei, Chang, Chun-Ting, Ciou, Jian-Hua, Kuo, Kai-Chuan, Wu, Chia-Ti, Lin, Ji, Lo, Tse-Yu, Chen, Yu, Lin, Huan-Wei, Tseng, Yu-Hsuan, Li, Mei-Li, Lin, Che-Tseng, Chen, Jiun-Tai
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Cambridge Royal Society of Chemistry 25.06.2025
• Subjects: Acrylic acid; Clean technology; Elastomers; Electrical properties; Flexible components; Ionic liquids; Multifunctional materials; Multilayers; Plastic pollution; Polyethylene terephthalate; Substrates
• ISSN: 2050-7488; 2050-7496
• DOI: 10.1039/d5ta01392e

Upcycling polyethylene terephthalate (PET) waste into multifunctional materials offers a sustainable solution to plastic pollution. In this work, upcycled thermoplastic polyester elastomer (TPEE) films are utilized as substrates to fabricate conductive, stretchable, self-healable, and alkaline-responsive multilayered films. A layer-by-layer assembly of poly(ionic liquid- co -acrylic acid) (PIL- co -PAA) and MXene nanosheets imparts elasticity, conductivity, and environmental responsiveness. Extending this method to commercial fabrics demonstrates self-healing mechanical and electrical properties, broadening application prospects. These findings highlight the potential of TPEE-based multilayer films as advanced materials for wearable and flexible electronics, emphasizing the role of upcycling in creating high-value, sustainable technologies. Upcycled thermoplastic polyester elastomers, poly(ionic liquid- co -acrylic acid), and MXene nanosheets are utilized to fabricate conductive, stretchable, self-healable, and alkaline-responsive multilayered films.