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Updated: Aug 18, 2026

Controlling the Size, Shape and Stability of Supramolecular Polymers in Water
Published on: August 2, 2012
Combination of orthogonal supramolecular interactions in polymeric architectures
Harald Hofmeier1, Ulrich S Schubert
1Laboratory of Macromolecular Chemistry and Nanoscience, Eindhoven University of Technology, The Netherlands.
Abstract:
Supramolecular polymers represent a highly interesting approach towards new "smart materials". A recent strategy includes the combination of different "orthogonal" non-covalent binding sites within one polymer system. Different functionalities can be introduced in a highly defined way by controlled self-assembly processes. This feature article presents highlights in the supramolecular polymer chemistry of multiple hydrogen-bonding, metal complexation (especially of bi- and terpyridines) and host-guest interactions as well as recent advances in combining these interactions in novel polymers.
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