Self-healing photochromic elastomer compositions for wearable ultraviolet-sensors
AssigneeThe Regents of the University of Michigan
InventorsDaniel CRESPY, Twa YIMYAI, Abdon PENA-FRANCESCH
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Abstract
Compositions for detecting ultraviolet (UV) radiation are provided that include a self-healing elastomeric polymer (e.g., functionalized polyurethane) having an electron donor functional group (e.g., dynamic disulfide bonds) and a photochromic component distributed in the elastomeric polymer. The composition is configured to display a color change when exposed to ultraviolet radiation. Products and methods for detecting ultraviolet (UV) radiation with such compositions are also provided. The products may include wearable devices, such as wristbands, stickers, patches, and the like.
Claims24
A composition for detecting ultraviolet (UV) radiation comprising:
- a self-healing elastomeric polymer comprising an electron donor functional group;
- and
- a photochromic component distributed in the self-healing elastomeric polymer configured to display a color change when exposed to ultraviolet radiation, wherein the electron donor functional group promotes a photochromic reaction of the photochromic component in the presence of the ultraviolet radiation.
A product for detecting ultraviolet (UV) radiation comprising:
- at least one detection region configured to receive and display a color change after exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, the detection region having a composite material comprising a self-healing elastomeric polymer matrix comprising an electron donor functional group and a photochromic component distributed in the polymer matrix, wherein the electron donor functional group promotes a photochromic reaction of the photochromic component in the presence of the ultraviolet radiation.
A method for detecting ultraviolet (UV) radiation, the method comprising:
- disposing a product having at least one detection region in an environment where UV radiation may be present, wherein the detection region comprises a composite material comprising a self-healing elastomeric polymer matrix comprising an electron donor functional group and a photochromic component distributed in the polymer matrix, wherein the electron donor functional group promotes a photochromic reaction of the photochromic component in the presence of the ultraviolet radiation;
- and
- detecting exposure to UV radiation after the at least one detection region of the product displays a color change.
24-31. (canceled)
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.