Switching of structural order in a cross-linked polymer triggered by the desorption/adsorption of guest molecules

A cross-linked polymer, prepared by the in situ polymerization of a thermotropic columnar liquid crystal, was found to work as a host with a flexible framework, which was reminiscent of intercalation hosts, such as clays, graphites, and coordination polymers. The structural order of the cross-linked polymer was reversibly switched by changing the amount or shape of a guest incorporated in the polymer.