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  • Focus Review
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A case study of monomer design for controlled/living supramolecular polymerization

Polymer Journal volume 53, pages 865–875 (2021)Cite this article

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Abstract

The development of controlled/living polymerization has contributed significantly to the exploration of new phenomena and applications in polymer physics and materials science. This method has recently been translated into the supramolecular domain, where it is likewise expected to open the door to fruitful fields of research; however, the principles of monomer design remain elusive. In this focus review, I present a case study of a series of porphyrin-based monomers that we have investigated over the past 10 years. By systematically designing monomers, we have been able to gain deep insights into the mechanisms of controlled/living supramolecular polymerization, and we have even been able to apply the developed method to synthesize two-dimensional supramolecular nanosheets with controlled areas and aspect ratios. This case study provides evidence for how nanostructures with precisely defined dimensions and optimized properties can be created using appropriate monomer design.

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Acknowledgements

This study was supported by Grants-in-Aid for Scientific Research, JSPS KAKENHI Grant Numbers 15H05483 and 19K05592; and by Grants-in-Aid for Scientific Research on Innovative Areas, JSPS KAKENHI Grant Numbers 16H00787 (Dynamic ordering of biomolecular systems for creation of integrated functions), 20H04682 (Soft Crystals, Science and Photofunctions of Flexible Response Systems with High Order), and 26102009 (π-System Figuration, Control of Electron and Structural Dynamism for Innovative Functions). I also would like to acknowledge the Sekisui Chemical Grant Program. The studies reviewed here were primarily performed by Dr. Soichiro Ogi (porphyrin monomers 1 and 2), Dr. Tomoya Fukui (4, 5, 61, 62, 63, and 7), and Dr. Norihiko Sasaki (8, 10, 12, 6N3, and 6F). I would also like to thank Dr. Masayuki Takeuchi for valuable discussions and his continuous support.

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  1. Molecular Design & Function Group, National Institute for Materials Science, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan

    Kazunori Sugiyasu

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Correspondence to Kazunori Sugiyasu.

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Sugiyasu, K. A case study of monomer design for controlled/living supramolecular polymerization. Polym J 53, 865–875 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41428-021-00478-y

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