In nature, shape defines function, and as such scientists have long since attempted to mimic nature in a pursuit to reach a similar level of fidelity. Complex macromolecular structures and shapes have been developed with interesting and unique functionalites- such as the design and synthesis of molecular machines. However, macromolecular structures such as these are difficult to synthesize. The work herein addresses this challenge and presents a strategy to precisely control the shape of macromolecules to generate well-defined structures. This synthetic technology leads to controlled growth of a molecular structure with precisely predictable shapes. In particular, the work involves the generation of short molecular strips, both linear and with a helical bend, as well as ladder polymer helices of different pitches which were probes for their spring-like motions. The development of these three-dimensional building blocks, their affinity for coupling in a controllable fashion, and their ability to be functionalized with through-space directed aromatic nitration methodology, has laid the foundation for much of the research related to chirality-assisted synthesis (CAS).

Synthesis of freeform single-handed helical strips and ladder polymers

ACS Spring Meeting 2021

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