Photoresponsive Supramolecular Polymer Networks via Hydrogen Bond Assisted Molecular Tweezer/Guest Complexation

Noncovalent molecular recognition exerts significant impact on the structure and functionality of self-assembled materials. In this work, we have developed a novel strategy toward supramolecular polymer networks, with the utilization of molecular tweezer/guest complexation as the cross-linkages. Intermolecular O–H···N hydrogen bond is embedded in bis­[alkynylplatinum­(II)] terpyridine molecular tweezer/<i>trans</i>-azobenzene recognition motif, which could not only enhance the cross-linking strength, but also endow photoresponsiveness to the supramolecular network assemblies. Moreover, supramolecular polymer networks display intriguing singlet oxygen generation capability due to the inherent incorporation of organoplatinum­(II) units. Hence, it offers a new avenue toward supramolecular materials via the combination of π-functionality, processability, and stimuli-responsiveness in an elaborate manner