Rational Synthesis of 2D Polymers Towards Designer Nanosheets

The clear difference in molecular shape distinguishes 2D polymers (2DPs) from conventional polymers. However, 2DPs do not need to be featureless sheets. The sheet can be characterized by its internal structure (i.e. molecular structure). This is where rational organic synthesis can play a crucial role. The authors have explored the synthesis of 2DPs with internal order. Strategies based on topochemistry and dynamic bond formation were implemented for the construction of periodic 2D networks. This has led to promising results that include the first successful organic synthesis of freestanding 2DP sheets with periodic internal order. The feasibility of the lateral polymerization of 1D material was also demonstrated with several concrete examples, which has opened a new door for the synthesis of 2DPs with in-plane anisotropic order.