Semi-crystalline silyl ether based vitrimers, method of making and uses thereof

A discovery has been made that address at least some of the problems associated with vitrimer polymers and producing such polymers. The solution is premised on producing a semi-crystalline silyl ether linked polymeric matrix using reactive extrusion methodology. Such methodology provides a solution to solvent based catalyst cross-linking methodology, which can cause side reactions like chain scission and permanent crosslinking, which can significantly alter the polymer mechanical properties. Furthermore, reactive extrusion allows fine tuning of crosslink density, which facilitates production of molded products (e.g., compression molding time and/or injection molding) with the desired end properties. The silyl ether can be extruded with a functionalized polymer to produce a vitrimer polymer composition. Notably, the vitrimer material of the present invention can have a semi-crystalline morphology, which can impart increased strength to the material due to the presence of crystal domains. The combination of the presence of the crystal domains and the cross-linked vitrimer network can result in relatively strong polymeric materials. Further, and despite the cross-linking, the vitrimer material of the present invention can be recyclable.