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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Apr 26, 2026

Controlling the Size, Shape and Stability of Supramolecular Polymers in Water

Controlling the Size, Shape and Stability of Supramolecular Polymers in Water

Published on: August 2, 2012

Molecular containers assembled through the hydrophobic effect.

Jacobs H Jordan¹, Bruce C Gibb

¹Department of Chemistry, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70118, USA. bgibb@tulane.edu.

Chemical Society Reviews

|August 5, 2014

Summary

Researchers are advancing supramolecular chemistry by using the hydrophobic effect to create well-defined molecular containers. This review highlights progress in controlling self-assembly for novel applications in aqueous solutions.

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Published on: April 8, 2020

Area of Science:

Supramolecular Chemistry
Materials Science
Physical Chemistry

Background:

The hydrophobic effect is a key driver in molecular self-assembly.
Supramolecular chemistry aims to create complex structures from simple molecules.
Controlling self-assembly in aqueous solutions is a significant challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

To review advancements in molecular container formation driven by the hydrophobic effect over the past decade.
To discuss strategies for achieving discrete, monodispersed, and structurally defined supramolecular entities.
To explore the implications of this research for aqueous solution chemistry and novel applications.

Main Methods:

Focus on three classes of molecules utilized in self-assembly studies.
Emphasis on the preorganization of rigid moieties to direct assembly.
Analysis of systems demonstrating control over supramolecular structure in water.

Main Results:

Demonstrated success in forming well-defined molecular containers via hydrophobic self-assembly.
Highlighted the importance of molecular design and preorganization for predictable assembly.
Showcased the ability to control supramolecular chemistry in aqueous environments.

Conclusions:

The hydrophobic effect is a powerful tool for designing molecular containers.
Progress in supramolecular chemistry enables precise control over self-assembly in water.
This field offers potential for novel applications leveraging aqueous solution properties.