Multicomponent low molecular weight gelators

Chem Commun (Camb). 2015 Mar 28;51(25):5170-80. doi: 10.1039/c4cc08626k.

Abstract

Low molecular weight gelators (LMWG) self-assemble in solution into one-dimensional objects such as fibres or tapes. The entanglement of these fibres or tapes results in the formation of a network and a gel. In general, LMWG are investigated as single component systems. However, there are significant potential opportunities from mixed LMWG systems, which are rarely investigated. Here, we discuss the potential of multicomponent systems, and critically discuss the challenges.