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Synthesis of Monodisperse Cylindrical Nanoparticles via Crystallization-driven Self-assembly of Biodegradable Block Copolymers
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Equilibration of Imine-Linked Polymers to Hexagonal Macrocycles Driven by Self-Assembly
Anton D Chavez1,2, Austin M Evans1, Nathan C Flanders1
1Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, 60208, USA.
Chemistry (Weinheim an Der Bergstrasse, Germany)
|February 2, 2018
Summary
Researchers created discrete hexagonal macrocycles using dynamic covalent chemistry. These materials offer easier processing than 2D covalent organic frameworks (COFs) and can be formed into oriented crystalline films for advanced applications.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Supramolecular Chemistry
- Organic Chemistry
Background:
- Macrocycles offer tunable properties similar to 2D covalent organic frameworks (COFs).
- Dynamic covalent chemistry enables the design of adaptable molecular architectures.
- Processing challenges exist for traditional 2D COFs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To synthesize discrete hexagonal imine-linked macrocycles.
- To investigate the polymerization and crystallization mechanisms of these macrocycles.
- To explore the potential for creating oriented crystalline films from these macrocycles.
Main Methods:
- Condensation reaction between a truncated 1,3,5-tris(4-aminophenyl)benzene (TAPB) analogue and terephthaldehyde (PDA).
- Utilizing dynamic covalent bond exchange for macrocycle formation.
- Crystallization-induced self-assembly and film casting.
Main Results:
- High yield synthesis of discrete hexagonal imine-linked macrocycles.
- Demonstration of selective macrocycle formation driven by aggregation and crystallization.
- Formation of oriented, crystalline films from macrocycle solutions.
Conclusions:
- Imine-linked macrocycles provide an accessible route to 2D material precursors.
- The study offers insights into the simultaneous polymerization and crystallization of 2D COFs.
- The developed materials expand processing options for advanced 2D materials.
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