Flow-Driven Non-Covalent Synthesis

Abstract

Flow systems enable continuous systematic solution transport. Under the concept of space–time regulation, parameters including concentration, mixing ratio, the encounter timing of different molecular components, solvent composition, pH, and the application of external stimuli, such as heat or light, can be precisely controlled in a reproducible manner and multi-step reactions have been realised in covalent synthesis. In non-covalent synthesis, flow systems provide established solution transport while affecting bond formation/dissociation. In this review, I present how flow systems can contribute to non-covalent synthesis, highlighting our recent achievements in this field. I focus on chemistry driven by the macroscopic motion of flow. Finally, I characterise flow-directed non-covalent synthesis by comparing it with associated chemistry fields, such as covalent synthesis, mechanochemistry, and non-equilibrium- and dissipative-assembly systems, and discuss its similarities and discrepancies with these fields. The insights obtained through flow-driven non-covalent synthesis enable us to expand supramolecular structure development and understand chemical events in a motion.