Utilizing non-covalent interactions to access controlled molecular assemblies as well as to influence communication between different components is a critical concept in most biological processes and natural biomaterials. Transferring this approach to designed synthetic polymer systems potentially opens the door to materials that exhibit unusual structural, mechanical and functional properties. The reversible nature of the non-covalent bond allows, when molecules are designed correctly, to access adaptive structurally dynamic polymers. We have been interested in the potential of such systems to access new material platforms and have developed a range of new mechanically stable, supramolecular polymer films that change their properties in response to a given stimulus, such as temperature, light, mechanical force or specific chemicals. One of the non-covalent interactions we have focused on is metal/ligand coordination. We have been carrying out investigations to understand structure/property relationships of these metallo-supramolecular polymers to gain a better idea of the role the metal ion, counter ion and organic ligand play in the properties of these materials. We have developed and investigated a range of metallo-supramolecular polymers that include multi-responsive gels, mechanically robust light emitting polymers, redox sensitive fluids, sensors for chemical warfare agents and mechanical deformation, healable materials and shape memory materials. We are also investigating how such materials can be used as templates to access metallic nanoparticle composites or interlocked polymers.

Metallo-supramolecular polymers as a route to adaptive polymer films

256th National Meeting (2018)

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