Sustainable Supramolecular Polymers
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 3, 2025

Controlling the Size, Shape and Stability of Supramolecular Polymers in Water
Published on: August 2, 2012
Luping Wang1, Yuwen Meng1, Xu Wang1
1National Engineering Research Center for Colloidal Materials, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250100, P. R. China.
Abstract:
Polymer waste is a pressing issue that requires innovative solutions from the scientific community. As a beacon of hope in addressing this challenge, the concept of sustainable supramolecular polymers (SSPs) emerges. This article discusses challenges and efforts in fabricating SSPs. Addressing the trade-offs between mechanical performance and sustainability, the ultra-tough and multi-recyclable supramolecular polymers are fabricated via tailoring mismatched supramolecular interactions. Additionally, the healing of kinetically inert polymer materials is realized through transient regulation of the interfacial reactivity. Furthermore, a possible development trajectory for SSPs is proposed, and the transient materials can be regarded as the next generation in this field. The evolution of SSPs promises to be a pivotal stride towards a regenerative economy, sparking further exploration and innovation in the realm of sustainable materials.
Related Concept Videos
Polymers
Anionic Chain-Growth Polymerization: Overview
Step-Growth Polymerization: Overview
Many natural and synthetic polymers are produced by...
Molecular Weight of Step-Growth Polymers
As the step-growth polymerization involves step-wise condensation of monomers, the molecular weight also builds up eventually. Consequently, high molecular weight polymers are obtained at the late stages of the polymerization, where 99% of monomers have been consumed.
The extent of the...
Polymers: Molecular Weight Distribution
Characteristics and Nomenclature of Copolymers

