Issue 15, 2014

Low-molecular-mass gels responding to ultrasound and mechanical stress: towards self-healing materials

Abstract

In this review, we focus on the types of smart supramolecular gels whose self-assembly processes are affected or even triggered by physical forces including sonication and mechanical stress (mechanical force). The types of gels that are responsive to sonication and mechanical stress are examined and summarised. The gels exhibit non-covalent interactions among the gelator molecules and show dynamic and reversible properties controlled by the stimuli. Upon stimulation, the gelators cause instant and in situ gelation of organic solvents or water with different modes and outcomes of self-assembly. On the other hand, sonication and mechanical stress, as external factors, can give rise to dynamic changes in microscopic morphology, optical properties, etc. Certain thixotropic supramolecular gels exhibit perfect self-healing characteristics. The driving forces and the mechanism of the self-assembly process and the responsive outcome of morphological and spectroscopic changes are discussed. Those supramolecular gels responding to sonication and mechanical stress offer a wide range of applications in fields such as smart and adaptive materials, switches, drug control and release, and tissue engineering.

Graphical abstract: Low-molecular-mass gels responding to ultrasound and mechanical stress: towards self-healing materials

Article information

Article type
Review Article
Submitted
07 Feb 2014
First published
28 Apr 2014

Chem. Soc. Rev., 2014,43, 5346-5371

Low-molecular-mass gels responding to ultrasound and mechanical stress: towards self-healing materials

X. Yu, L. Chen, M. Zhang and T. Yi, Chem. Soc. Rev., 2014, 43, 5346 DOI: 10.1039/C4CS00066H

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