Sequence-controlled supramolecular copolymer constructed by self-sorting assembly of multiple noncovalent interactions

In this work, four monomers, M1, M2, M3, and M4, were designed and synthesized. M1 + M2 + M3 + M4 + Zn(OTf)2 could self-assemble into a sequence-controlled supramolecular copolymer through self-sorting at relatively high concentrations. The self-sorting assembly of the four monomers was verified by NMR spectroscopy, UV-Vis spectroscopy, viscosity measurements, dynamic light scattering, fluorescence spectroscopy, SEM, and TEM analyses. The experimental results showed that supramolecular polymerization depended on the initial concentrations of the monomers. The resulting supramolecular copolymer (SCP) showed K+ responsiveness, and adding-removing K+ could drive the disassembly-reassembly of SCP. Moreover, OH− could enhance the fluorescence emission of the SCP-based solution or film. The SCP could also be applied to prepare honeycomb-patterned films. With stimuli-responsive behavior and regulatable fluorescence properties, the SCP has potential application value in creating smart adaptive materials.