Molecular Motions in Functional Self-Assembled Nanostructures

International Journal of Molecular Sciences

Alexandre Dhotel²  Ziguang Chen¹  Laurent Delbreilh²  Boulos Youssef²  Jean-Marc Saiter² 

[1] AMME–A-TEAM, Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE 68588, USA; E-Mail:;AMME–LECAP, EA4528, International Laboratory, Institut des Matériaux de Rouen, Université et INSA de Rouen, BP12, 76801 Saint Etienne du Rouvray Cedex, France; E-Mails:

关键词: self-assembly;    nanostructures;    molecular motion;    molecular recognition;    stimuli-responsive materials;    metal-organic frameworks (MOFs);    DNA;    self-assembled monolayers (SAMs);    molecular rotors;    block copolymers;   

DOI  :  10.3390/ijms14022303

来源: mdpi

【 摘 要 】

The construction of “smart” materials able to perform specific functions at the molecular scale through the application of various stimuli is highly attractive but still challenging. The most recent applications indicate that the outstanding flexibility of self-assembled architectures can be employed as a powerful tool for the development of innovative molecular devices, functional surfaces and smart nanomaterials. Structural flexibility of these materials is known to be conferred by weak intermolecular forces involved in self-assembly strategies. However, some fundamental mechanisms responsible for conformational lability remain unexplored. Furthermore, the role played by stronger bonds, such as coordination, ionic and covalent bonding, is sometimes neglected while they can be employed readily to produce mechanically robust but also chemically reversible structures. In this review, recent applications of structural flexibility and molecular motions in self-assembled nanostructures are discussed. Special focus is given to advanced materials exhibiting significant performance changes after an external stimulus is applied, such as light exposure, pH variation, heat treatment or electromagnetic field. The crucial role played by strong intra- and weak intermolecular interactions on structural lability and responsiveness is highlighted.

【 授权许可】

CC BY   
© 2013 by the authors; licensee Molecular Diversity Preservation International, Basel, Switzerland.