Dynamic polymers based on oxime-urethane chemistry: design, performances, and applications

Dynamic polymers based on dynamic covalent chemistry represent a promising class of smart and responsive materials that have garnered significant research interest in recent years. Oxime-urethane chemistry, typically derived from the reaction between oximes and isocyanates, is remarkable for its multiple reversible reactivity nature under specific stimuli. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of the development of dynamic polymers, with a specific focus on oxime-urethane based polymers. We summarize key design strategies, including the structural characteristics and sources of oximes, methods for polymer preparation, and the design of network topology. Additionally, we outline the major applications of oxime-urethane based dynamic polymers in flexible electronics, three-dimensional (3D) printing, biomedicine, and other fields. Finally, we discuss the current challenges and future directions within this field.