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Gels with sense: supramolecular materials that respond to heat, light and sound

Jones, Christopher D.; Steed, Jonathan W.

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Authors

Christopher D. Jones



Abstract

Advances in the field of supramolecular chemistry have made it possible, in many situations, to reliably engineer soft materials to address a specific technological problem. Particularly exciting are “smart” gels that undergo reversible physical changes on exposure to remote, non-invasive environmental stimuli. This review explores the development of gels which are transformed by heat, light and ultrasound, as well as other mechanical inputs, applied voltages and magnetic fields. Focusing on small-molecule gelators, but with reference to organic polymers and metal–organic systems, we examine how the structures of gelator assemblies influence the physical and chemical mechanisms leading to thermo-, photo- and mechano-switchable behaviour. In addition, we evaluate how the unique and versatile properties of smart materials may be exploited in a wide range of applications, including catalysis, crystal growth, ion sensing, drug delivery, data storage and biomaterial replacement.

Citation

Jones, C. D., & Steed, J. W. (2016). Gels with sense: supramolecular materials that respond to heat, light and sound. Chemical Society Reviews, 45(23), 6546-6596. https://doi.org/10.1039/c6cs00435k

Journal Article Type Article
Acceptance Date Sep 19, 2016
Online Publication Date Sep 20, 2016
Publication Date Sep 20, 2016
Deposit Date Nov 21, 2016
Publicly Available Date Mar 29, 2024
Journal Chemical Society Reviews
Print ISSN 0306-0012
Electronic ISSN 1460-4744
Publisher Royal Society of Chemistry
Peer Reviewed Peer Reviewed
Volume 45
Issue 23
Pages 6546-6596
DOI https://doi.org/10.1039/c6cs00435k

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