2012 February 17 | T. Aida, E.W. Meijer, and S.I. Stupp
The article discusses functional supramolecular polymers, which are materials that can exhibit both dynamic and ordered properties, similar to biological systems. These polymers are formed through non-covalent interactions, such as hydrogen bonds and electrostatic forces, and can be designed to have specific functions, such as self-healing, adaptability, and responsiveness. Unlike traditional synthetic polymers, which are made from covalent bonds, supramolecular polymers can be easily recycled and modified by changing the interactions between their building blocks.
The article highlights the potential of supramolecular polymers in various applications, including biomedical and electronic functions. For example, supramolecular polymers can be used to create bioactive filaments that can signal cells and promote tissue regeneration. They can also be used to create electronic devices, such as semiconducting nanofibers and nanotubes, which have potential applications in photovoltaics and other electronic devices.
The article also discusses the development of supramolecular chemistry, which has led to the creation of a wide range of structures, from simple guest-host systems to complex self-assembled objects. These structures have been used to create materials with unique properties, such as high mechanical strength and self-healing capabilities. The article emphasizes the importance of designing supramolecular polymers with specific functions, such as those that can respond to environmental stimuli or perform specific biological functions.
The article concludes by discussing the future potential of supramolecular polymers, including their use in creating materials with new functions in sustainability, electronics, and health. It also highlights the importance of exploring hybrid systems that combine supramolecular and covalent polymers, as well as the potential of supramolecular polymers in creating 2D and 3D complex systems.The article discusses functional supramolecular polymers, which are materials that can exhibit both dynamic and ordered properties, similar to biological systems. These polymers are formed through non-covalent interactions, such as hydrogen bonds and electrostatic forces, and can be designed to have specific functions, such as self-healing, adaptability, and responsiveness. Unlike traditional synthetic polymers, which are made from covalent bonds, supramolecular polymers can be easily recycled and modified by changing the interactions between their building blocks.
The article highlights the potential of supramolecular polymers in various applications, including biomedical and electronic functions. For example, supramolecular polymers can be used to create bioactive filaments that can signal cells and promote tissue regeneration. They can also be used to create electronic devices, such as semiconducting nanofibers and nanotubes, which have potential applications in photovoltaics and other electronic devices.
The article also discusses the development of supramolecular chemistry, which has led to the creation of a wide range of structures, from simple guest-host systems to complex self-assembled objects. These structures have been used to create materials with unique properties, such as high mechanical strength and self-healing capabilities. The article emphasizes the importance of designing supramolecular polymers with specific functions, such as those that can respond to environmental stimuli or perform specific biological functions.
The article concludes by discussing the future potential of supramolecular polymers, including their use in creating materials with new functions in sustainability, electronics, and health. It also highlights the importance of exploring hybrid systems that combine supramolecular and covalent polymers, as well as the potential of supramolecular polymers in creating 2D and 3D complex systems.