Insight into the implication of high-loading mechanical force on the mechanical bond

Mechanical bonds are good candidates for functional materials due to their inherent flexible mobility. Nevertheless, the mechanical properties of these systems need to be evaluated before any plausible applications. It’s well known that interlocked structures can efficiently absorb energy under low tension owing to the ‘pulley effect’ between the rings. But the mechanical bond will eventually rupture if mechanical energy is strong enough and little is known about this process. Recent advancements in the study of polymer mechanochemistry alongside mechanical bonds have unveiled promising progress. In this perspective, we discuss the mechanical susceptibility of these mechanical bonds, specifically focusing on the rupture of covalent bonds within the interlocked structures when subjected to high-loading forces and the underlying mechanisms. Furthermore, we outline the forthcoming challenges in the development of hybrid force-stimulated functional materials utilizing mechanical bonds.