Transient and Dissipative Host–Guest Hydrogels Regulated by Consumption of a Reactive Chemical Fuel |
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Authors: | Bo Su Dr Teng Chi Dr Zhou Ye Dr Yuanhui Xiang Dr Ping Dong Dongping Liu Christopher J Addonizio Prof Dr Matthew J Webber |
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Institution: | Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, University of Notre Dame, 46556 Notre Dame, IN, USA |
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Abstract: | The transient self-assembly of molecules under the direction of a consumable fuel source is fundamental to biological processes such as cellular organization and motility. Such biomolecular assemblies exist in an out-of-equilibrium state, requiring continuous consumption of high energy molecules. At the same time, the creation of bioinspired supramolecular hydrogels has traditionally focused on associations occurring at the thermodynamic equilibrium state. Here, hydrogels are prepared from cucurbit7]uril host–guest supramolecular interactions through transient physical crosslinking driven by the consumption of a reactive chemical fuel. Upon action from this fuel, the affinity and dynamics of CB7]–guest recognition are altered. In this way, the lifetime of transient hydrogel formation and the dynamic modulus obtained are governed by fuel consumption, rather than being directed by equilibrium complex formation. |
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Keywords: | Chemical Fuel Dynamic Materials Non-Equilibrium Rheology Soft Matter |
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