Photo-redox controlled supramolecular polymerisation

Abstract

The design of dynamic and responsive supramolecular systems requires precise control over intermolecular interactions and molecular architecture. Despite significant progress in this field, generalisable design principles remain elusive. In this context, the present study aims to develop a photo-redox controlled supramolecular system by integrating photoactive and redox-responsive units with self-assembling motifs. We employ the well-established redox properties of N-methyl-4,4'-bipyridinium derivatives (viologens) and naphthalene diimide (NDI) moiety. By fine-tuning the molecular structure, the system is expected to exhibit emergent dynamic behaviour arising from the electronic communication between functional units. This work primarily focuses on the synthesis of rationally designed photo-redox active monomeric units capable of enabling transient behaviour under ambient conditions. Overall, this study contributes to the broader effort to develop generalisable design principles for next-generation adaptive and stimuli-responsive materials.