Main-chain supramolecular polymers based on orthogonal benzo-21-crown-7/secondary ammonium salt and terpyridine/metal ion recognition motifs.

Orthogonal self-assembly of multiple components represents an efficient strategy to afford hierarchical and multifunctional assemblies. Here, we demonstrate the orthogonal recognition behaviors between benzo-21-crown-7/secondary ammonium salt and terpyridine/metal ions (Fe(2+) or Zn(2+) ) recognition motifs. Main-chain supramolecular polymers are subsequently achieved via "one-pot" mixing of the three monomers together (heteroditopic monomer 1, homoditopic secondary ammonium salt monomer 2, and Fe(BF4 )2 •6H2 O or Zn(OTf)2 ), which are confirmed by (1) H NMR, UV-Vis, DOSY, and viscosity measurements. Moreover, different metal ions (Fe(2+) or Zn(2+) ) exert considerable effects on the size of the resulting supramolecular polymers. Integration of two different types of non-covalent interactions renders dynamic and responsive properties for the resulting supramolecular polymers, as triggered by a variety of external stimuli such as temperature, potassium cation, as well as stronger chelating ligands. Therefore, the current work is a prerequisite for the future application of such orthogonal assemblies as intelligent supramolecular materials.