Supramolecular organogels based on dendrons and dendrimers

Dendrons and dendrimers have well-defined, discrete structures that can be precisely controlled at the molecular lever. Owing to their unique architectures and multiple functionalities, dendritic molecules have shown intensive self-assembly behavior and functional performance. In particular, they have been shown to be promising candidates for applications in the assembly of gel-phase materials. Furthermore, the introduction of suitable functional moieties into the core, the branches, and/or the periphery of the dendritic gelators enables the construction of smart and functional supramolecular gel materials. Over the past decade, a number of dendritic organogelators that are based on poly(amino acid), poly(amide), and poly(aryl ether) dendrons, or together with multiple alkyl chains on the periphery, have been reported. This review describes the important developments in dendritic organogelators, with an emphasis on new strategies for the molecular design of dendritic gelators, understanding of driving forces for gel formation, and their evolution for potential applications in smart soft materials.