Molecular-recognition-directed formation of supramolecular polymers

In recent years, significant research effort has focused on creating supramolecular polymers that can be attained by specific host-guest interactions of the repeating units. During the supramolecular polymerization process, molecular recognition events, which are predetermined by the molecular building blocks, are highly selective and directional for defining the size, direction and dimension of the resulting supramolecular polymers. The diversity of the supramolecular building blocks ranges from small aromatic units to macrocycles. Recently, the interplay of supramolecular and polymer chemistry has led to the creation of novel supramolecular materials, which display fascinating functions such as self-healing, stimuli-responsiveness and rubber-like elastomeric properties. Supramolecular cross-linking and supramolecular block copolymerization are the methods that have been used to install fascinating and functional moieties onto polymer backbones. Currently, the development of practical supramolecular polymeric materials is an ongoing challenge for supramolecular chemists. This review will focus on the recent developments in supramolecular polymers composed of discrete repeating units, as well as novel supramolecular materials produced by the interplay of supramolecular and polymer chemistry. Polymer Journal (2013) 45, 363-383; doi:10.1038/pj.2012.144; published online 1 August 2012