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Supramolecular gels with high strength by tuning of calix[4]arene-derived networks

Author

Listed:
  • Ji Ha Lee

    (Department of Chemistry and Research Institute of Natural Sciences Gyeongsang National University)

  • Jaehyeon Park

    (Department of Chemistry and Research Institute of Natural Sciences Gyeongsang National University)

  • Jin-Woo Park

    (School of Materials Science and Engineering, Gyeongsang National University)

  • Hyo-Jun Ahn

    (School of Materials Science and Engineering, Gyeongsang National University)

  • Justyn Jaworski

    (Hanyang University
    Institute of Nanoscience and Technology)

  • Jong Hwa Jung

    (Department of Chemistry and Research Institute of Natural Sciences Gyeongsang National University)

Abstract

Supramolecular gels comprised of low-molecular-weight gelators are generally regarded as mechanically weak and unable to support formation of free-standing structures, hence, their practical use with applied loads has been limited. Here, we reveal a technique for in situ generation of high tensile strength supramolecular hydrogels derived from low-molecular-weight gelators. By controlling the concentration of hydrochloric acid during hydrazone formation between calix-[4]arene-based gelator precursors, we tune the mechanical and ductile properties of the resulting gel. Organogels formed without hydrochloric acid exhibit impressive tensile strengths, higher than 40 MPa, which is the strongest among self-assembled gels. Hydrogels, prepared by solvent exchange of organogels in water, show 7,000- to 10,000-fold enhanced mechanical properties because of further hydrazone formation. This method of molding also allows the gels to retain shape after processing, and furthermore, we find organogels when prepared as gel electrolytes for lithium battery applications to have good ionic conductivity.

Suggested Citation

  • Ji Ha Lee & Jaehyeon Park & Jin-Woo Park & Hyo-Jun Ahn & Justyn Jaworski & Jong Hwa Jung, 2015. "Supramolecular gels with high strength by tuning of calix[4]arene-derived networks," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 6(1), pages 1-9, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:natcom:v:6:y:2015:i:1:d:10.1038_ncomms7650
    DOI: 10.1038/ncomms7650
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