Dynamic force spectroscopy of coordination-based reversible polymer building blocks

ORGN 719

Farrell R. Kersey, frk@duke.edu and Stephen L. Craig, stephen.craig@duke.edu. Department of Chemistry, Duke University, Gross Chemical Laboratory, Box 90346, Durham, NC 27708
The ability of small molecules to form reversible polymeric structures through noncovalent self-assembly creates an avenue for the rational, molecular design of new, responsive materials. Rational design will require a knowledge of the interplay between the mechanics, kinetics, and thermodynamics of the self-assembly process. Here we report the use of dynamic force spectroscopy to characterize the mechanics and dynamics of coordination bonds used in creating a novel class of reversible polymers. The experiments highlight the importance of molecular dynamics and mechanism, rather than equilibrium thermodynamics, as a determinant of mechanical properties.