Plasticization of a Semicrystalline Metallosupramolecular Polymer Network.

The assembly of ligand-functionalized (macro)monomers with suitable metal ions affords metallosupramolecular polymers (MSPs). On account of the reversible and dynamic nature of the metal-ligand complexes, these materials can be temporarily (dis-)assembled upon exposure to a suitable stimulus, and this effect can be exploited to heal damaged samples, to facilitate processing and recycling, or to enable reversible adhesion. We here report on the plasticization of a semicrystalline, stimuli-responsive MSP network that was assembled by combining a low-molecular-weight building block carrying three 2,6-bis(1'-methylbenzimidazolyl) pyridine (Mebip) ligands and zinc bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide (Zn(NTf)).

Mechanically robust supramolecular polymer co-assemblies.

Supramolecular polymers are formed through non-covalent, directional interactions between monomeric building blocks. The assembly of these materials is reversible, which enables functions such as healing, repair, or recycling. However, supramolecular polymers generally fail to match the mechanical properties of conventional commodity plastics.