Synthesis and Properties of Networks Based on Thiol‐ene Chemistry Using a CO 2 ‐Based δ‐Lactone

Abstract 3‐Ethylidene‐6‐vinyltetrahydro‐2H‐pyran‐2‐one, a divinyl δ‐lactone derived from CO 2 and 1,3‐butadiene, is used for the synthesis of networks with various compositions through the thiol‐ene click reaction with di‐ and tri‐thiol compounds. Thermal, mechanical, and optical properties of the networks are characterized. The networks have sharp and uniform glass transitions and show good thermal stability with T d from 287 to 332 °C. Mechanical properties of the networks can be adjusted by the cross‐link density; 6.18 MPa of tensile strength, 574% break elongation and 1.84 of tan δ at maximum are reached. Metal complexation makes the networks tougher due to additional cross‐links. The highly homogeneous networks are transparent with average 90% transmittance of visible light, and of decent refractive indices around 1.55. Swelling‐induced twist shape transformation and visible QR code under UV light is realized by pattern of the network.