Redox-Responsive, Reconfigurable All-Liquid Constructs

J Am Chem Soc. 2021 Mar 17;143(10):3719-3722. doi: 10.1021/jacs.1c00429. Epub 2021 Mar 3.

Abstract

Using host-guest chemistries in a biphasic system, a novel supramolecular nanoparticle surfactant (s-NPS) with redox-responsiveness is presented to structure liquids. The in situ assembly/jamming and disassembly/unjamming of s-NPSs at the oil-water interface are reversibly controlled by a switchable redox process, imparting a nanoscale redox-responsiveness, affecting the assemblies on all length scales. "Smart" all-liquid constructs including structured emulsions and programmable liquid devices are easily prepared, showing promising applications in responsive delivery, release, and reaction systems.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Microscopy, Confocal
  • Nanoparticles / chemistry
  • Oils / chemistry*
  • Oxidation-Reduction
  • Printing, Three-Dimensional
  • Surface-Active Agents / chemistry
  • Water / chemistry*
  • beta-Cyclodextrins / chemistry

Substances

  • Oils
  • Surface-Active Agents
  • beta-Cyclodextrins
  • Water
  • betadex