Low molecular weight gels (LMWGs), which are formed from small molecules through non-covalent interactions, have attracted significant attention in recent decades, due to their potential applications in technologies, such as nanoscale electronics and tissue engineering. It is well-known that the incorporation of additives in LMWGs can influence the gel structure, responsiveness, and mechanics. In this study, we introduced polymers into LMWGs <i>via</i> two pathways: (1) solubilized monomer that is polymerized post-LMWG gelation and (2) pre-formed polymer solubilized prior to LMWG gelation. With this strategy, we systematically investigated the connection between the polymer additive incorporation pathway and LMWG assembly, and gel mechanics of the reinforced composite. We found that the microstructure of the LMWG is highly dependent upon the pathway of polymer inclusion. Polymerization <i>in-situ </i>of solubilized monomer in an assembled LMWG led to a composite gel with similar architecture and fibrillar size compared to the pure LMWG. If the pre-formed polymer was added prior to LMWG assembly, the dimensions of the LMWG were significantly altered, which is attributed to the polymer chains serving as a nucleation guide for the LMWG. Initial rheological experiments suggest that the polymer-LMWG composites prepared in two pathways exhibit different elasticity, responsiveness and recovery ability.

Probing the influence of the assembly of polymer additives in the reinforcement of responsive gels

Macromolecular Chemistry: The Second Century

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ACS Spring 2020 National Meeting & Expo

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.