Supramolecular gel phase crystallization: orthogonal self-assembly under non-equilibrium conditions
D Krishna Kumar1, Jonathan W Steed
1Department of Chemistry, Durham University, South Road, Durham, DH1 3LE, UK. jon.steed@durham.ac.uk.
Chemical Society Reviews
|August 9, 2013
Summary
This review explores gel phase crystallization, from early Liesegang rings to modern pharmaceutical solid form development in organogels. It highlights orthogonal self-assembly as a key paradigm for creating complex chemical systems.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Chemical Engineering
- Crystallography
Background:
- Gel phase crystallization involves crystal growth within a gel matrix.
- Liesegang rings represent an early example of pattern formation in gels.
- Low molecular weight organogels are increasingly used for novel material synthesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a historical overview of gel phase crystallization.
- To discuss current research in pharmaceutical solid form generation using organogels.
- To contextualize crystal growth in gels as orthogonal self-assembly.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of historical and current research.
- Analysis of crystal growth under supersaturation gradients within gels.
- Conceptual framework of orthogonal self-assembly.
Main Results:
- Gel phase crystallization has evolved significantly since Liesegang ring formation.
- Orthogonal self-assembly in organogels offers a powerful method for generating new pharmaceutical solid forms.
- These processes demonstrate emergent behavior in complex chemical systems.
Conclusions:
- Gel phase crystallization is a versatile technique with a rich history.
- Orthogonal self-assembly provides a paradigm for designing advanced materials.
- Further research in this area can lead to innovative pharmaceutical and chemical solutions.
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