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Chemically programmed self-sorting of gelator networks

journal contribution
posted on 2023-06-08, 14:28 authored by Kyle L Morris, Lin Chen, Jaclyn Raeburn, Owen R Sellick, Pepa Cotanda, Alison Paul, Peter C Griffiths, Stephen M King, Rachel K O’Reilly, Louise SerpellLouise Serpell, Dave J Adams
Controlling the order and spatial distribution of self-assembly in multicomponent supramolecular systems could underpin exciting new functional materials, but it is extremely challenging. When a solution of different components self-assembles, the molecules can either coassemble, or self-sort, where a preference for like-like intermolecular interactions results in coexisting, homomolecular assemblies. A challenge is to produce generic and controlled ‘one-pot’ fabrication methods to form separate ordered assemblies from ‘cocktails’ of two or more self-assembling species, which might have relatively similar molecular structures and chemistry. Self-sorting in supramolecular gel phases is hence rare. Here we report the first example of the pH-controlled self-sorting of gelators to form self-assembled networks in water. Uniquely, the order of assembly can be predefined. The assembly of each component is preprogrammed by the pKa of the gelator. This pH-programming method will enable higher level, complex structures to be formed that cannot be accessed by simple thermal gelation

History

Publication status

  • Published

Journal

Nature Communications

ISSN

2041-1723

Publisher

Nature Publishing Group

Volume

4

Page range

1480

Department affiliated with

  • Biochemistry Publications

Full text available

  • No

Peer reviewed?

  • Yes

Legacy Posted Date

2013-02-14

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