Supramolecular polymer networks based on cucurbit[8]uril host–guest interactions as aqueous photo-rheological fluids. Issue 44 (26th August 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Tan, Cindy S. Y.; del Barrio, Jesús; Liu, Ji; Scherman, Oren A.
• Is Part Of: Polymer chemistry. Volume 6:Issue 44(2015)
• Page Start: 7652
• Page End: 7657
• Publication Date: 2015-08-26
• Subjects: Polymers -- Periodicals; Macromolecules -- Periodicals; Polymerization -- Periodicals; 547.705
• DOI: 10.1039/c5py01115a
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1759-9954

Abstract

Abstract : A low-mass fraction (≤0.75 wt%) supramolecular polymer network is fabricated as an aqueous photo-rheological fluid (PRF) via cucurbit[8]uril mediated host–guest interactions. UV irradiation can induce the transition from a highly viscous and rigid gel into a Newtonian-like fluid. Abstract : We describe a low-mass fraction (≤0.75 wt%) supramolecular polymer network as an aqueous photo-rheological fluid (PRF) whose rheological properties can be easily modulated via light irradiation. This supramolecular polymer network is formed via CB[8]-assisted host–guest interactions between naphthyl-functionalised hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC-Np), methyl viologen containing styrene copolymer (PSTMV), cucurbit[8]uril (CB[8]) and a photoisomerisable azobenzene imidazolium (AzoIm) derivative. This cellulose-based PRF can undergo a UV-triggered rapid transition from a highly viscous and rigid gel into a Newtonian-like fluid, with a decrease in zero-shear viscosity of over two orders of magnitude. Moreover, the rate of viscosity reduction of these PRFs can be tuned based on the mixture composition and duration of photoirradiation.