For the PDMS material, it's linear thermal expansion coefficient is about 3.2*10-4/℃.
The polyimide has a smaller linear thermal expansion coefficient like 2*10-5/℃, but it cannot be stretch.
It that possible to find a material which can be flexible and stretchable, while also having small linear thermal expansion coefficient? If not, then what hinders materials from achieving both stretchability and small thermal expansion coefficient? (maybe you can explain the reasons from physical properties or molecular level)
It is hard to find a material that has the low linear thermal expansion coefficient and the flexibility and stretchability of PDMS (polydimethylsiloxane). This is because these properties naturally trade off at the molecular level.
Key Considerations
Potential Materials and Approaches
Physical and Molecular-Level Considerations
Conclusion
Currently, no single material perfectly balances extreme flexibility/stretchability and a very low thermal expansion coefficient due to the molecular structure requirements. However, advances in composite materials and polymer engineering are promising approaches to achieving these properties. The main challenge lies in maintaining the polymer's inherent flexibility while integrating components that resist thermal expansion.
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