Self‐assembled two‐dimensional porous network in aqueous solution based on perylene diimide phenylacetylene oligomer

Abstract

Abstract Two‐dimensional porous networks self‐assembled in solution are rare, while maintaining the solution‐phase network structure upon casting on solid supports presents a major challenge. We report on oligoarylacetylene bearing amphiphilic perylene diimide moieties that self‐assemble into a two‐dimensional porous network in aqueous solution that can be cast on surfaces, while maintaining the porous structure. The networks were characterized by cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo‐TEM and cryo‐SEM), and by atomic force microscopy, revealing formation of thin porous films (4‐nm thick). The network can be cast on various solid surfaces, preserving its solution‐phase structure. The design motif utilizing an oligoarylacetylene backbone with interacting amphiphilic pendants appears to be of wide utility for formation of novel assembly patterns. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.