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100th Anniversary of Macromolecular Science Viewpoint: Engineering Supramolecular Materials for Responsive
Chase B Thompson1, LaShanda T J Korley1,2
1Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Delaware, 127 The Green, Newark, Delaware 19716, United States.
ACS Macro Letters
|May 31, 2022
Summary
Supramolecular polymers utilize dynamic noncovalent interactions for robust, responsive materials. Researchers explore self-assembly chemistries and control strategies for next-generation smart materials.
Area of Science:
- Polymer Chemistry
- Materials Science
- Supramolecular Chemistry
Background:
- Supramolecular polymers leverage dynamic noncovalent interactions.
- These interactions enhance material toughness and enable stimuli-responsiveness.
- Self-assembly allows integration into diverse glassy and elastomeric materials.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine supramolecular polymer self-assembly chemistries.
- To explore methods for controlling supramolecular polymer self-assembly.
- To highlight the potential of supramolecular polymers in designing smart materials.
Main Methods:
- Review of self-assembly chemistries in supramolecular polymers.
- Analysis of control strategies such as covalent cross-links and nanofillers.
- Examination of environmental interactions for property control.
Main Results:
- Supramolecular motifs can be incorporated into various material types.
- Noncovalent interactions provide a platform for tunable material properties.
- Strategic design enables the development of advanced smart materials.
Conclusions:
- Supramolecular polymer chemistry offers dynamic material solutions.
- Control over self-assembly is key to material innovation.
- Continued research addresses challenges and fosters advancements in the field.
