Dynamic Polymer Networks: A Design Platform for Adaptive Thermal Management.

Abstract

Dynamic polymer networks (DPNs), constructed via reversible covalent bonds or non-covalent interactions, have emerged as a versatile material platform that uniquely combines stimuli-responsive adaptability, reprocessability, and recyclability with the mechanical robustness of thermosets. These attributes have recently become particularly attractive for thermal management applications, where conventional static materials often suffer from single functionality, poor interfacial adaptability, and end-of-life non-recyclability. This perspective provides a systematic overview of recent advances in DPN-based thermal management materials, organized around three technological pathways: switchable thermal conductivity materials, adaptive thermal interface materials, and dynamic radiative cooling materials. We discuss how reversible bond exchange enables molecular-level regulation of chain conformation, filler network architecture, and interfacial conformability, thereby achieving on-demand control of heat transport, reduction of contact thermal resistance, and dynamic modulation of radiative cooling performance. The intrinsic recyclability of DPNs further allows material repair, reshaping, and component recovery, supporting circular economy principles. Finally, we identify key challenges-including the trade-off between dynamicity and long-term stability, response speed, multifunctional integration, and scalable manufacturing-and offer perspectives on future directions toward intelligent, sustainable, and high-performance thermal management systems.