Orthogonal polymer networks that contain dynamic nodes

Abstract

The synthesis of a cross-linked polymer network with orthogonal chain orientations and dynamic nodal points is described. The “shish kabob” network relies on formation of stable non-covalently bound polymeric inclusion compounds made from polypropylene oxide in cyclodextrin, followed by chemical cross-linking of the individual cyclodextrin units with bifunctional hexamethylene chains. True networks with differential swelling and solubility properties are achieved in this proof-of-principle contribution, and films/membranes are easily prepared from the final products. Polymer networks formed in this manner may exhibit interesting physical, swelling, and sequestration properties due to the unique nature of their network nodal points, which have more degrees of freedom than covalently bonded nodes, but are permanent relative to entangled polymer chains.