Abstract
A novel compound based on a glutamic acid skeleton, containing azobenzene as a photoresponsive group and ureidopyrimidinone (UPy) as a connection site, was designed and synthesized. The monomer is capable of forming an organogel in nonpolar organic solvents and different types of nanostructures in other solvents. The state of the gel and the chirality of the nanostructures could both be adjusted by subsequent light irradiation at different wavelengths. The helical nanofiber-like morphology was verified in the internal structure of the gel. The performance of this gel was investigated by a series of methods, such as UV–vis absorption spectroscopy, circular dichroism, scanning electron microscopy and rheological techniques. This work provides a new method for facile synthesis of chiro-optical gels.
Highlights
Supramolecular gels [1,2] immobilized by three-dimensional networks through self-assembly have drawn significant attention in the past decades
They are normally fabricated by means of noncovalent intermolecular interactions [3], such as π–π stacking, hydrogen bonding, van der Waals forces, hydrophobic, electrostatic, host–guest and other interactions
Strong enough to confirm the formation of chiral structures. These results indicate that the chiral nanostructures can be only obtained in solvents with lower polarity, especially in aromatic solvents
Summary
Supramolecular gels [1,2] immobilized by three-dimensional networks through self-assembly have drawn significant attention in the past decades. It is found that compound 3 is able to form a gel in nonpolar solvents. This CD signal disappeared after irradiation with light at 365 nm, implying that the chiral structure in the solution had been destroyed.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
