Pi-organogels of self-assembled p-phenylenevinylenes: soft materials with distinct size, shape, and functions.
This Account is focused on the self-assembly of p-phenylenevinylenes, a linear pi-system, which has been extensively studied over the years due to both fundamental and technological importance. A serendipitous observation of the gelation of an oligo( p-phenylenevinylene) (OPV) derivative in nonpolar hydrocarbon solvents that led to a new class of functional materials, namely, pi-organogels, is described. Strategies to control the size, shape, and functions of the supramolecular architectures of OPV self-assemblies are highlighted. Formation of nano- to microsized helical architectures, control on chromophore packing, self-assembly induced modulation of optical properties, and application as light-harvesting assemblies are the important features of this novel class of photonically and electronically active soft materials.
Ajayaghosh
Ayyappanpillai
A
Photosciences and Photonics Group, Chemical Sciences and Technology Division, National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology (NIST), CSIR, Trivandrum 695 019, India. aajayaghosh@rediffmail.com
Praveen
Vakayil K
VK
D005782:Gels; D006860:Hydrogen Bonding; D008958:Models, Molecular; D015394:Molecular Structure; D011145:Polyvinyls / Q000138:chemical synthesis / Q000737:chemistry; D014227:Triazines / Q000138:chemical synthesis / Q000737:chemistry
D005782:Gels; D011145:Polyvinyls; D014227:Triazines; C470024:poly(4-phenylenevinylene)