Nonlinear Effects in Multicomponent Supramolecular Hydrogels

Multicomponent low molecular weight gels are useful for a range of applications. However, when mixing two components, both of which can independently form a gel, there are many potential scenarios. There is a limited understanding as to how to control and direct the assembly. Here, we focus on a pH-...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Langmuir 2017-03, Vol.33 (9), p.2387-2395
Main Authors: Draper, Emily R, Wallace, Matthew, Schweins, Ralf, Poole, Robert J, Adams, Dave J
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Condensed Matter
Physics
Soft Condensed Matter
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Summary:Multicomponent low molecular weight gels are useful for a range of applications. However, when mixing two components, both of which can independently form a gel, there are many potential scenarios. There is a limited understanding as to how to control and direct the assembly. Here, we focus on a pH-triggered two-component system. At high pH, colloidal structures are formed, and there is a degree of mixing of the two gelators. As the pH is decreased, there is a complex situation, where one gelator directs the assembly in a “sergeants and soldiers” manner. The second gelator is not fully incorporated, and the remainder forms an independent network. The result is that there is a nonlinear dependence on the final mechanical properties of the gels, with the storage or loss modulus being very dependent on the absolute ratio of the two components in the system.
ISSN:0743-7463
1520-5827
DOI:10.1021/acs.langmuir.7b00326