Single-chain technology using discrete synthetic macromolecules

Fundamental polymer science is undergoing a profound transformation. As a result of recent progress in macromolecular chemistry and physics, synthetic polymer chains are becoming much more than just the modest building blocks of traditional 'plastics'. Promising options for controlling the primary and secondary structures of synthetic polymers have been proposed and, therefore, similarly to biopolymers, synthetic macromolecules may now be exploited as discrete objects with carefully engineered structures and functions. Although it is not possible today to reach the high level of complexity found in biomaterials, these new chemical possibilities open interesting avenues for applications in microelectronics, photovoltaics, catalysis and biotechnology. Here, we describe in detail these recent advances in macromolecular science and emphasize the possible emergence of technologies based on single-chain devices.