Adhesive-tuning with aromatic dithiols in thiol-quinone Michael polyadditions to tailor thiol-catechol connected (TCC) polymers

Aromatic phenolic dithiol monomers facilitate efficient thiol-quinone polyaddition, thereby expanding the property space of adhesives featuring thiol-catechol connectivities (TCCs). Compared to aliphatic thiols, a cleaner and faster polymerisation is achieved with bisquinone A. Dithiol isomers influence polymerisation kinetics, product glass transition temperatures, and adhesive lap shear strength. Underwater adhesion tests confirm robust bonding, demonstrating the potential for bioinspired performance adhesives.