Chemically Activated S-S Metathesis for Adhesive-Free Bonding of Polysulfide Surfaces

A polysulfide terpolymer made from canola oil, dicyclopentadiene, and elemental sulfur is synthesized and evaluated as bulk structural material. The unique polysulfide structure in this material allows the two polymer blocks to be bonded together through amine-catalyzed S-S metathesis. No exogenous adhesive is required: the polysulfide is both the bulk material and the mortar. The strength of the joined polymers is evaluated by a series of shear tests and compared to the bond strength obtained with commercially available superglue. The adhesion obtained via the S-S metathesis is stronger in all tests. To improve the mechanical properties of the terpolymer, carbon nanorods and carbon fibers are embedded in the polymer, with the latter leading to nearly a 16-fold increase in flexural strength. Prospects in sustainable construction are discussed.