A Pillar[5]arene‐Based Smart Organogel with Effective Iodine Adsorption

Abstract

AbstractTwo copolymers are synthesized: one (P1) has pendant azo and 5‐(1H‐1, 2, 3‐triazol‐1‐yl) pentanenitrile (TAPN) groups, and the other (P2) has pendant azo and pillar[5]arene groups. When the two copolymers are mixed in chloroform, an organogel with excellent self‐healing capability and dual‐stimulus responsiveness is formed. Reversible double noncovalent cross‐linked networks including host–guest complexation and π–π interactions are responsible for this property. A xerogel prepared from the organogel can capture iodine in aqueous media. The presence of many effective sorption sites including electron‐rich phenolic units and azo groups provides the xerogel with iodine uptake ability. The pillar[5]arene‐based gel can adsorb iodine and self‐heal rapidly, and therefore has potential as a long‐life adsorbent.