Supramolecular Polymerization Controlled through Kinetic Trapping

Abstract

A method of controllable supramolecular polymerization through kinetic trapping is developed. To this end, two bifunctional monomers with cucurbit[7]uril (CB[7]) and adamantane end groups were synthesized. The CB[7]-containing monomer was presaturated with a pH-responsive competitive guest for kinetic control. Then, the kinetics of supramolecular polymerization of the two monomers was easily controlled through the modulation of pH. As a result, supramolecular polymerization was kinetically trapped at certain stages, and supramolecular polymers with different molecular weights were obtained. It is anticipated that this research will enrich the methods of controllable supramolecular polymerization.