Highly Efficient Preparation of Single-Layer Two-Dimensional Polymer Obtained from Single-Crystal to Single-Crystal Synthesis

Aromatic cation-π induced multifluorescence tunable two-dimensional co-assemblies for encoded information security

The field of light-emitting two-dimensional co-assemblies (2DCAs) is extending rapidly. Nevertheless, multifluorescence tunable 2DCAs are relatively underdeveloped, because the exploration of novel assembly strategies and noncovalent interactions to realize desirable photophysical features is still difficult. Herein, we present the first implementation of an aromatic cation-π interaction induced emissive charge transfer strategy for multifluorescence tunable 2DCAs, which are derived from fluorophore anthracene-based monomers and planar aromatic cations (pyrylium and tropylium). Benefiting from the aromatic cation-π interactions between anthracene and cationic guests, well-regulated 2DCAs are thus successfully obtained. The resultant 2DCAs exhibit a broadened fluorescence tunable range between blue-green and red emission colors, which is simply realized by varying the solvent ratio to turn on/off the aromatic cation-π emission charge transfer in the assembly/disassembly state of 2DCAs. On this basis, the programmable numbers, letters, patterns, and 3D codes with co-assembly encoded information security functions are successfully fabricated on papers, which would have a positive impact on developing supramolecular encryption materials.

Manipulating Aromaticity to Redirect Topochemical Polymerization Pathways

Topochemical polymerization (TCP) represents an essential route to create regio- and stereoregular polymers through solid-state transformations. Herein, we present an innovative strategy for controlling topochemical polymerization pathways by tailoring the terminal group aromaticity in the para-azaquinodimethane (AQM) ring system. Substituting phenyl groups with less aromatic furyl units extends significant spin density delocalization across the conjugated core upon thermal activation, inducing significant diradicaloid characters at furyl positions and enabling unconventional reactivities in both solution and solid states. Thermal treatment in toluene yields a unique cyclophane dimer formed via furyl-methine C-C coupling, confirmed by X-ray crystallography, while solid-state reactions produce polymers formed via both intercolumnar furyl-methine coupling and intracolumnar methine-methine coupling. The spin-center-directed mechanism underlying these transformations is validated through theoretical modeling and isotopic labeling experiments. This study highlights the prowess of aromaticity modulation in functional pro-aromatic systems, which enables the synthesis of polymers with main chain structures that are otherwise difficult to access.

Photothermal Catalytic Synthesis of Sulfonic Acid Functionalized Covalent Organic Framework Achieved by COF-to-COF Transformation for Photocatalysis

Although photothermal catalysis is a clean, efficient, and green approach to access organic products, its application in the synthesis and transformation of covalent organic frameworks (COFs) remains unprecedented. Herein, we report the photothermal catalytic synthesis of C─C bond linked COF under visible light, which can be a reusable photocatalyst to highly promote oxidation of benzyl amines. Furthermore, we have developed a new postsynthetic modification strategy to construct COFs by photoinduced thermally-driven hydroamination via crystal-to-crystal transformation. The obtained COF containing sulfonic acid group showed an excellent catalytic performance in promoting aerobic oxidation of alkyl arenes under mild reaction conditions. These results not only enrich the COF synthetic methodology but also open a new route to access COFs in a green and sustainable way.

Overcoming Boundaries: Towards the Ambient Aqueous Synthesis of Covalent Organic Frameworks

The synthesis of covalent organic frameworks (COFs) has traditionally been carried out under strict solvothermal and anaerobic conditions. The utilization of organic solvents in such reactions not only carries significant costs but also imposes a great burden on the environment. The fabrication of COFs using alternative synthetic pathways has, therefore, seen rapid development in recent years and much attention has been placed on green and sustainable methods in particular. The synthesis of COFs in purely aqueous media, however, remains challenging due to the delicate nature of the chemical reactions and the crystallization process in water. This mini-review discusses different synthetic strategies for the construction of crystalline COFs in aqueous media and offers a perspective on the future development of facile COF synthesis in ambient conditions.

Protonation of Nitrogen-Containing Covalent Organic Frameworks for Enhanced Catalysis

Covalent organic frameworks (COFs) are a class of porous crystalline materials with ordered structures and tunable properties, which have been widely explored in catalysis, sensing, gas storage, and separation. Among various post-synthetic modifications, protonation emerges as a simple yet effective strategy to fine-tune the properties of nitrogen-containing COFs, thereby enhancing their catalytic performance. This concept article highlights the contribution of protonation on the mass transfer kinetics, charge distribution, photo-response, charge transfer, and other properties related to photocatalysis and electrocatalysis. The applications of protonated COFs are explored in catalytic processes including hydrogen evolution, CO2 reduction, H2O2 synthesis, and singlet oxygen generation. We also emphasize the necessity of considering the protonation process when nitrogen-containing COFs are applied in acidic environments to accurately reveal the structure-activity relationship. By analyzing recent advancements in protonated COFs, this article underscores the potential and challenges of protonation as a powerful tool for advancing COF-based catalytic systems.

Large Molecular Rotation in Crystal Changes the Course of a Topochemical Diels-Alder Reaction from a Predicted Polymerization to an Unexpected Intramolecular Cyclization

A designed anthracene-based monomer for topochemical Diels-Alder cycloaddition polymerization crystallized with head-to-tail arrangement of molecules, as revealed by single-crystal X-ray diffraction (SCXRD) analysis. The diene and dienophile units of adjacent monomer molecules are aligned at an average distance of 4.6 Å, suggesting a favorable crystalline arrangement for their intermolecular Diels-Alder cycloaddition reaction to form a linear polymer. Surprisingly, heating the monomer crystals at a temperature above 125 °C resulted in the formation of intramolecular Diels-Alder cycloadduct, which could be characterized by various spectroscopy and SCXRD analysis. Various time-dependent studies such as NMR, PXRD, and DSC, studies established that the reaction followed topochemical pathway. Schmidt's topochemical postulates are generally used to predict the topochemical reactivity and product, by analyzing the crystal structure of the reactant. Though the crystal arrangement predicted polymerization, upon heating, the molecule avoided this pathway by undergoing a large rotation to form an intramolecular cycloadduct. Theoretical calculations supported the feasibility of the rotation, exploiting the flexibility of the molecule and voids present. These findings caution that the reliance on Schmidt's criteria for topochemical reactions may sometimes be misleading, especially in heat-induced reactions.

Photodimerization-Triggered Photopolymerization of Triene Coordination Polymers Enables Macroscopic Photomechanical Movements

Controlling the packing of olefinic molecules in crystals is essential for triggering solid-state [2 + 2] photocycloaddition reactions and the synthesis of photocontrolled smart materials. Herein, we report the stepwise photodimerization-triggered photopolymerization of two triene coordination polymers (CPs), {[Zn(2-BBA)2(tpeb)]·0.5CH3CN}n (1, 2-HBBA = 2-bromobenzoic acid, tpeb = 1,3,5-tri-4-pyridyl-1,2-ethenylbenzene) and {[Zn(3-BBA)2(tpeb)]·CH3CN)}n (2, 3-HBBA = 3-bromobenzoic acid). Upon irradiation with 420 nm light, each pair of closely packed and parallel olefinic bonds in 1 undergoes a [2 + 2] cycloaddition reaction, which connects two adjacent Z-shaped chains into a ladder-like coordination chain [Zn(2-BBA)2(bpbdpvpcb)0.5]n (1a, bpbdpvpcb = 1,3-bis(4-pyridyl)-2,4-bis(3,5-di(2-(4-pyridyl)vinyl)phenyl]cyclobutene) through single-crystal to single-crystal (SCSC) transformation. After photodimerization from 1 to 1a has occurred, the olefinic bonds that were initially distant are brought in close enough proximity to meet the requirements for a subsequent [2 + 2] cycloaddition reaction. Upon further light irradiation, the neighboring bpbdpvpcb ligands in 1a experience a SCSC photopolymerization based on [2 + 2] photocycloaddition and transform into poly-3b,4,5,5a,8b,9,10a-octahydro-4,5,9,10-tetrapyridyl-2,7-di(2-(4-pyridyl)vinyl)dicyclobuta[e,l]-pyren (poly-otpdpvdcbp). 2 showed similar structural changes under UV light illumination. Under light exposure, single crystals of 1 and 2 with different morphologies exhibit bending, cracking, and jumping photomechanical motions. The composite film (1-PVA) engineered by dispersing crystalline particles of 1 in poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) displays interesting light-wavelength-dependent photomechanical motions and can perform photodriven swimming on a liquid surface. This work provides a useful and promising approach to enable photodimerization of those photoinactive olefin pairs embedded in CPs and opens a new route to synthesize organic polymers by using olefinic CP platforms.

Hierarchical single-crystal-to-single-crystal transformations of a monomer to a 1D-polymer and then to a 2D-polymer

Designing and synthesizing flawless two-dimensional polymers (2D-Ps) via meticulous molecular preorganization presents an intriguing yet challenging frontier in research. We report here the single-crystal-to-single-crystal (SCSC) synthesis of a 2D-P via thermally induced topochemical azide-alkyne cycloaddition (TAAC) reaction. A designed monomer incorporating two azide and two alkyne units is synthesized. The azide and alkyne groups are preorganized in the monomer crystal in reactive geometries for polymerizations in two orthogonal directions. On heating, the polymerizations proceed in a hierarchical manner; at first, the monomer reacts regiospecifically in a SCSC fashion to form a 1,5-triazolyl-linked 1D polymer (1D-P), which upon further heating undergoes another SCSC polymerization to a 2D-P through a second regiospecific TAAC reaction forming 1,4-triazolyl-linkages. Two different linkages in orthogonal directions make this an architecturally attractive 2D-P, as determined, at atomic resolution, by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. The 2D-P reported here is thermally stable in view of the robust triazole-linkages and can be exfoliated as 2D-sheets.

Structure Evolution of 2D Covalent Organic Frameworks Unveiled by Single-Crystal X-ray Diffraction

We report 9 crystal structures of a two-dimensional (2D) covalent organic framework (COF), including the parent Py-1P, 5 derivatives formed by chemical reactions, and 3 dynamic states by solvent exchange/loss. Structure details of these porous crystals, including stacking mode, interlayer distance, pore aperture, and incline angle, before, during, and after conversion processes in solution, were unveiled by single-crystal X-ray diffraction with resolutions up to 0.85 Å. The structure evolution is triggered by stepwise conformational transformation of the molecular building blocks in 2D COF, while their long-range ordering remained unsacrificed.

Fabrication of Large-Area Multi-Stimulus Responsive Thin Films via Interfacially Confined Irreversible Katritzky Reaction

Fabrication of large-area thin films through irreversible reactions remains a formidable task. This study reports a breakthrough strategy for in situ synthesis of large-area, free-standing, robust and multi-stimulus responsive thin films through a catalyst-free and irreversible Katritzky reaction at a liquid-liquid interface. The as resulted films are featured with adjustable thickness of 1-3 μm and an area up to 50 cm2. The thin films exhibit fast photo-mechanical motions (a response time of ca 0.1 s), vapor-mechanical motions, as well as photo-chromic and solvato-chromic behaviors. It was revealed that the reason behind the observable motions is proton transfer from the imine groups to the carbonyl structures within the film induced by photo- and/or dimethyl sulfoxide-stimulus. In addition, the films can harvest anionic radicals and the radicals as captured can be efficiently degraded under UV light illumination. This study provides a new strategy for fabricating smart thin films via interfacially confined irreversible Katritzky reaction.

Single-Crystal-to-Single-Crystal Photosynthesis of Supramolecular Organoboron Polymers with Dynamic Effects

The solid-state synthesis of single-crystalline organic polymers, having functional properties, remains an attractive and developing research area in polymer chemistry and materials science. However, light-triggered topochemical synthesis of crystalline polymers comprising an organoboron backbone has not yet been reported. Here, we describe an intriguing example of single-crystal-to-single-crystal (SCSC) rapid photosynthesis (occurs on a seconds-scale) of two structurally different linear organoboron polymers, driven by environmentally sustainable visible/sun light, obtained from the same monomer molecule. A newly designed Lewis acid-base type molecular B ← N organoboron adduct (consisting of an organoboron core and naphthylvinylpyridine ligands) crystallizes in two solid-state forms featuring the same chemical structure but different 3D structural topologies, namely, monomers 1 and 2. The solvate molecule-free crystals of 1 undergo topochemical photopolymerization via an unusual olefin-naphthyl ring [2 + 2] cyclization to yield the single crystalline [3]-ladderane polymer 1P growing along the B ← N linkages, accompanied by instantaneous and violent macroscopic mechanical motions or photosalient effects (such as bending-reshaping and jumping motions). In contrast, visible light-harvesting single crystals of 2 quantitatively polymerize to a B ← N bond-stabilized polymer 2P in a SCSC fashion owing to the rapid [2 + 2] cycloaddition reaction among olefin double bonds. Such olefin bonds in the crystals of 2 are suitably preorganized for photoreaction due to the presence of solvate molecules in the crystal packing. Single crystals of 2 also show photodynamic jumping motions - in response to visible light but in a relatively slower fashion than the crystals of 1. In addition to SCSC topochemical polymerization and dynamic motions, both monomer crystals and their single-crystalline polymers feature green emissive and short-lived room-temperature phosphorescence properties upon excitation with visible-light wavelength.

[2 + 2] cycloaddition and its photomechanical effects on 1D coordination polymers with reversible amide bonds and coordination site regulation

Photo-responsive materials can convert light energy into mechanical energy, with great application potential in biomedicine, flexible electronic devices, and bionic systems. We combined reversible amide bonds, coordination site regulation, and coordination polymer (CP) self-assembly to synthesize two 1D photo-responsive CPs. Obvious photomechanical behavior was observed under UV irradiation. By combining the CPs with PVA, the mechanical stresses were amplified and macroscopic driving behavior was realized. In addition, two cyclobutane amide derivatives and a pair of cyclobutane carboxyl isomers were isolated through coordination bond destruction and amide bond hydrolysis. Therefore, photo-actuators and supramolecular synthesis in smart materials may serve as important clues.

Recent advances in two-dimensional polymers: synthesis, assembly and energy-related applications

Two-dimensional polymers (2DPs) are a class of 2D crystalline polymer materials with definite structures, which have outstanding physical-chemical and electronic properties. They cleverly link organic building units through strong covalent bonds and can construct functional 2DPs through reasonable design and selection of different monomer units to meet various application requirements. As promising energy materials, 2DPs have developed rapidly in recent years. This review first introduces the basic overview of 2DPs, such as their historical development, inherent 2D characteristics and diversified topological advantages, followed by the summary of the typical 2DP synthesis methods recently (including "top-down" and "bottom-up" methods). The latest research progress in assembly and processing of 2DPs and the energy-related applications in energy storage and conversion are also discussed. Finally, we summarize and prospect the current research status, existing challenges, and future research directions of 2DPs.

Linker-Guided Growth of Single-Crystal Covalent Organic Frameworks

The core features of covalent organic frameworks (COFs) are crystallinity and porosity. However, the synthesis of single-crystal COFs with monomers of diverse reactivity and adjustment of their pore structures remain challenging. Here, we show that linkers that can react with a node to form single-crystal COFs can guide other linkers that form either COFs or amorphous polymers with the node to gain single-crystal COFs with mixed components, which are homogeneous on the unit cell scale with controlled ratios. With the linker-guided crystal growth method, we created nine types of single-crystal COFs with up to nine different components, which are more complex than any known crystal. The structure of the crystal adapted approximately to that of the main component, and its pore volume could be expanded up to 8.8%. Different components lead to complex and diverse pore structures and offer the possibilities to gain positive synergies, as exemplified by a bicomponent COF with 2200 and 733% SO2 uptake capacity of that of the two pure-component counterparts at 298 K and 0.002 bar. The selectivity for separation of SO2/CO2 ranges from 1230 to 4247 for flue gas based on ideal adsorbed solution theory, recording porous crystals. The bicomponent COF also exhibits a 1300% retention time of its pure-component counterparts for SO2 in a dynamic column breakthrough experiment for deep desulfurization.

Single-Crystal One-Dimensional Porous Ladder Covalent Polymers

The synthesis of single-crystal, one-dimensional (1D) polymers is of great importance but a formidable challenge. Herein, we report the synthesis of single-crystal 1D ladder polymers in solution by dynamic covalent chemistry. The three-dimensional electron diffraction technique was used to rigorously solve the structure of the crystalline polymers, unveiling that each polymer chain is connected by double covalent bridges and all polymer chains are packed in a staggered and interlaced manner by π-π stacking and hydrogen bonding interactions, making the crystalline polymers highly robust in both thermal and chemical stability. The synthesized single-crystal polymers possess permanent micropores and can efficiently remove CO2 from the C2H2/CO2 mixture to obtain high-purity C2H2, validated by dynamic breakthrough experiments. This work demonstrates the first example of constructing single-crystal 1D porous ladder polymers with double covalent bridges in solution for efficient C2H2/CO2 separation.

Single-crystal polymers (SCPs): from 1D to 3D architectures

Single-crystal polymers (SCPs) with unambiguous chemical structures at atomic-level resolutions have attracted great attention. Obtaining precise structural information of these materials is critical as it enables a deeper understanding of the potential driving forces for specific packing and long-range order, secondary interactions, and kinetic and thermodynamic factors. Such information can ultimately lead to success in controlling the synthesis or engineering of their crystal structures for targeted applications, which could have far-reaching impact. Successful synthesis of SCPs with atomic level control of the structures, especially for those with 2D and 3D architectures, is rare. In this review, we summarize the recent progress in the synthesis of SCPs, including 1D, 2D, and 3D architectures. Solution synthesis, topochemical synthesis, and extreme condition synthesis are summarized and compared. Around 70 examples of SCPs with unambiguous structure information are presented, and their synthesis methods and structural analysis are discussed. This review offers critical insights into the structure-property relationships, providing guidance for the future rational design and bottom-up synthesis of a variety of highly ordered polymers with unprecedented functions and properties.

Effect of self and extrinsic encapsulation on electron resilience of porous 2D polymer nanosheets

Despite the exceptional resolution in aberration-corrected high-resolution transmission electron microscope (AC-HRTEM) images of inorganic two-dimensional (2D) materials, achieving high-resolution imaging of organic 2D materials remains a daunting challenge due to their low electron resilience. Optimizing the critical dose (the electron exposure, the material can accept before it is noticeably damaged) is vital to mitigate this challenge. An understanding of electron resilience in porous crystalline 2D polymers including the effect of sample thickness has not been derived thus far. It is assumed, that additional layers of the sample form a cage around inner layers, which are preventing fragments from escaping into the vacuum and enabling recombination. In the literature this so called caging effect has been reported for perylene and pythalocyanine. In this work we determine the critical dose of a porous, triazine-based 2D polymer as function of the sample thickness. The results show that the caging effect should not be generalized to more sophisticated polymer systems. We argue that pore channels in the framework structure serve as escape routes for free fragments preventing the caging effect and thus showing surprisingly a thickness-independent critical dose. Moreover, we demonstrate that graphene encapsulation prevents fragment escape and results in an increase in the critical electron dose and unit-cell image resolution.

Highly Selective Electrocatalytic Olefin Hydrogenation in Aqueous Solution

Selective hydrogenation of olefins with water as the hydrogen source at ambient conditions is still a big challenge in the field of catalysis. Herein, the electrocatalytic hydrogenation of purely aliphatic and functionalized olefins was achieved by using graphdiyne based copper oxide quantum dots (Cux O/GDY) as cathodic electrodes and water as the hydrogen source, with high activity and selectivity in aqueous solution at high current density under ambient temperature and pressure. In particular, the sp-/sp2 -hybridized graphdiyne catalyst allows the selective hydrogenation of cis-trans isomeric olefins. The chemical and electronic structure of the GDY results in the incomplete charge transfer between GDY and Cu atoms to optimize the adsorption/desorption of the reaction intermediates and results in high reaction selectivity and activity for hydrogenation reactions.

Design, synthesis, and application of some two-dimensional materials

Two-dimensional (2D) materials are widely used as key components in the fields of energy conversion and storage, optoelectronics, catalysis, biomedicine, etc. To meet the practical needs, molecular structure design and aggregation process optimization have been systematically carried out. The intrinsic correlation between preparation methods and the characteristic properties is investigated. This review summarizes the recent research achievements of 2D materials in the aspect of molecular structure modification, aggregation regulation, characteristic properties, and device applications. The design strategies to fabricate functional 2D materials starting from precursor molecules are introduced in detail referring to organic synthetic chemistry and self-assembly technology. It provides important research ideas for the design and synthesis of related materials.

Construction of Covalent Organic Frameworks via a Visible-Light-Activated Photocatalytic Multicomponent Reaction

Multicomponent reactions (MCRs), as a powerful one-pot combinatorial synthesis tool, have been recently applied to the synthesis of covalent organic frameworks (COFs). Compared with the thermally driven MCRs, the photocatalytic MCR-based COF synthesis has not yet been investigated. Herein, we first report the construction of COFs by a photocatalytic multicomponent reaction. Upon visible-light irradiation, a series of COFs with excellent crystallinity, stability, and permanent porosity are successfully synthesized via photoredox-catalyzed multicomponent Petasis reaction under ambient conditions. Additionally, the obtained Cy-N₃-COF exhibits excellent photoactivity and recyclability for the visible-light-driven oxidative hydroxylation of arylboronic acids. The concept of photocatalytic multicomponent polymerization not only enriches the methodology for COF synthesis but also opens a new avenue for the construction of COFs that might not be possible with the existing synthetic methods based on thermally driven MCRs.

Natural Sunlight Photocatalytic Synthesis of Benzoxazole-Bridged Covalent Organic Framework for Photocatalysis

Although natural sunlight-mediated photocatalysis is a clean, efficient, and green approach to access organic products, its application in the synthesis of covalent organic frameworks (COFs), however, is still unprecedented. Herein, we first report the sunlight photocatalytic synthesis of COF under ambient conditions. Furthermore, this "window ledge" reaction generated benzoxazole-linked COF is stable and can be applied as a reusable photocatalyst to highly promote visible-light-driven aerobic oxidation of sulfides to sulfoxides. These results not only enrich the COF synthetic methodology but also open a new route to access COFs in a green and sustainable way.

Single-crystal-to-single-crystal translation of a helical supramolecular polymer to a helical covalent polymer

Polymers possessing helical conformation in the solid state are in high demand. We report a helical peptide-polymer via the topochemical ene-azide cycloaddition (TEAC) polymerization. The molecules of the designed Gly-Phe-based dipeptide, decorated with ene and azide, assemble in its crystals as β-sheets and as supramolecular helices in two mutually perpendicular directions. While the NH…O H-bonding facilitates β-sheet-like stacking along one direction, weak CH…N H-bonding between the azide-nitrogen and vinylic-hydrogen of molecules belonging to the adjacent stacks arranges them in a head-to-tail manner as supramolecular helices. In the crystal lattice, the azide and alkene of adjacent molecules in the supramolecular helix are suitably preorganized for their TEAC reaction. The dipeptide underwent regio- and stereospecific polymerization upon mild heating in a single-crystal-to-single-crystal fashion, yielding a triazoline-linked helical covalent polymer that could be characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction studies. Upon heating, the triazoline-linked polymer undergoes denitrogenation to aziridine-linked polymer, as evidenced by differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetric analysis, and solid-state NMR analyses.

Optimal acceleration voltage for near-atomic resolution imaging of layer-stacked 2D polymer thin films

Despite superb instrumental resolution in modern transmission electron microscopes (TEM), high-resolution imaging of organic two-dimensional (2D) materials is a formidable task. Here, we present that the appropriate selection of the incident electron energy plays a crucial role in reducing the gap between achievable resolution in the image and the instrumental limit. Among a broad range of electron acceleration voltages (300 kV, 200 kV, 120 kV, and 80 kV) tested, we found that the highest resolution in the HRTEM image is achieved at 120 kV, which is 1.9 Å. In two imine-based 2D polymer thin films, unexpected molecular interstitial defects were unraveled. Their structural nature is identified with the aid of quantum mechanical calculations. Furthermore, the increased image resolution and enhanced image contrast at 120 kV enabled the detection of functional groups at the pore interfaces. The experimental setup has also been employed for an amorphous organic 2D material.

High-resolution imaging of organic 2D materials using transmission electron microscopes is challenging. Here, the authors find the optimal electron acceleration voltage, and demonstrate 1.9 Å resolution, enabling detection of interstitial defects and functional groups in 2D polymer thin films.

Topochemical Postulates: Are They Relevant for Topochemical Reactions Occurring at Elevated Temperatures?

A rigid inositol-derived monomer functionalized with azide and alkyne as the complementary reactive groups (CRGs) crystallized as three distinct polymorphs I-III. Despite the unsuitable orientation of CRGs in the crystals for complete polymerization, all the three polymorphs underwent regiospecific and quantitative topochemical azide-alkyne cycloaddition (TAAC) polymerization upon heating to yield three different polymorphs of 1,2,3-triazol-1,4-diyl-linked-poly-neo-inositol. The molecules in these polymorphs exploit the weak intermolecular interactions, free space in the crystal lattice, and heat energy for their large and cooperative molecular motion to attain a transient reactive orientation, ultimately leading to the regiospecific TAAC reaction yielding distinct crystalline polymers. This study cautions that the overreliance on topochemical postulates for the prediction of topochemical reactivity at high temperatures could be misleading.

Single Molecular Layer of Chitin Sub-Nanometric Nanoribbons: One-Pot Self-Exfoliation and Crystalline Assembly into Robust, Sustainable, and Moldable Structural Materials

Sub-nanometric materials (SNMs) represent a series of unprecedented size-/morphology-related properties applicable in theoretical research and diverse cutting-edge applications. However, in-depth investigation and wide utilization of organic SNMs are frequently hindered, owing to the complex synthesis procedures, insufficient colloidal stability, poor processability, and high cost. In this work, a low-cost, energy-efficient, convenient, effective, and scalable method is demonstrated for directly exfoliating chitin SNMs from their natural sources through a one-pot "tandem molecular intercalation" process. The resultant solution-like sample, which exhibits ribbon-like feature and contains more than 85% of the single molecular layer (thickness <0.6 nm), is capable of being solution-processed to different types of materials. Thanks to the sub-nanometric size and rich surface functional groups, chitin SNMs reveal versatile intriguing properties that rarely observe in their nano-counterparts (nanofibrils), e.g., crystallization-like assembly in the colloidal state and alcoplasticity/self-adhesiveness in the bulk aggregate state. The finding in this work not only opens a new avenue for the high value-added utilization of chitin, but also provides a new platform for both the theoretical study and practical applications of organic SNMs.

Single-Crystal-to-Single-Crystal Transformation of Two Copper(II) Metal-Organic Frameworks Modulated by Auxiliary Ligands

The single-crystal-to-single-crystal (SCSC) transformations of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are fascinating because we can directly observe the change of the crystal structure during the transformation process. It also greatly helps to understand the delicate interaction between the guest molecules and the skeleton framework and therefore fosters a deep understanding of gas storage and separation within the frameworks. Herein, we report two novel MOFs, [Cu₈(BCB)₄(μ₃-OH)₂(μ₃-O)(H₂O)₈(Py)₅]·16DMF·52H₂O (1) and [Cu₃(BCB)₂(Py)₆]·DMF·11H₂O (2) (Py = pyridine; DMF = N,N'-dimethylformamide), which were constructed through the self-assembly of Cu²⁺ and 4,4',4″-benzenetricarbonyltribenzoic acid (H₃BCB) by a solvothermal reaction. Although the structure and coordination patterns of compound 1 are pretty different from those of 2, the two Cu-MOFs were prepared from identical ligands and similar reaction conditions. Interestingly, compound 1 will change to 2 wholly and gradually after the addition of a certain amount of Py with a small amount of dilute hydrochloric acid. This conversion represents a scarce example of SCSC transformation involving transition-metal-based MOFs. Moreover, with its microporous nature, compound 2 shows large carbon dioxide (CO₂) uptake capability and good selectivity for CO₂/N₂ separation. Furthermore, both compounds 1 and 2 could be used as excellent heterogeneous catalysts toward the cyanosilylation reaction under solvent-free conditions.

Terraced and Three-dimensional Pyramid-shaped Polymer Single Crystal via low temperature-Assisted Microfluidic Technology

Three-dimensional pyramidal polymer single crystals provide spatial gradient variations within the crystal molecules, and these variations facilitate the study of the relationship between structure and properties within the molecules of various complexes with anisotropic structures. As described herein, we propose a low-temperature-assisted microfluidic pore channeling approach to prepare structurally ordered polymer single crystals. A mixture of dichloromethane and dimethyl sulfoxide was used as a prepolymer, and a liquid microfluidic technique was employed to grow the end-functionalized polymers into three-dimensional polymer single crystals. Through the ordered growth of single crystals, a personalized pyramidal pattern with a homogeneous structure was formed. To evaluate the mesh node density, low-temperature growth time and substrate type were also investigated. Rectangular, pyramidal, and dendritic patterns were synthesized via low-temperature single crystal growth. This work shows that low temperature-assisted microfluidics provides a novel means to tune the three-dimensional structure of polymer single crystals. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Solution-processable and functionalizable ultra-high molecular weight polymers via topochemical synthesis

Topochemical polymerization reactions hold the promise of producing ultra-high molecular weight crystalline polymers. However, the totality of topochemical polymerization reactions has failed to produce ultra-high molecular weight polymers that are both soluble and display variable functionality, which are restrained by the crystal-packing and reactivity requirements on their respective monomers in the solid state. Herein, we demonstrate the topochemical polymerization reaction of a family of para-azaquinodimethane compounds that undergo facile visible light and thermally initiated polymerization in the solid state, allowing for the first determination of a topochemical polymer crystal structure resolved via the cryoelectron microscopy technique of microcrystal electron diffraction. The topochemical polymerization reaction also displays excellent functional group tolerance, accommodating both solubilizing side chains and reactive groups that allow for post-polymerization functionalization. The thus-produced soluble ultra-high molecular weight polymers display superior capacitive energy storage properties. This study overcomes several synthetic and characterization challenges amongst topochemical polymerization reactions, representing a critical step toward their broader application.

Unveiling the role of pyrylium frameworks on π-stacking interactions: a combined ab initio and experimental study

A multidisciplinary study is presented to shed light on how pyrylium frameworks, as π-hole donors, establish π-π interactions. The combination of CSD analysis, computational modelling (ab intitio, DFT and MD simulations) and experimental NMR spectroscopy data provides essential information on the key parameters that characterize these intereactions, opening new avenues for further applications of this versatile heterocycle.

Single-crystal-to-single-crystal synthesis of a pseudostarch via topochemical azide-alkyne cycloaddition polymerization

There is high demand for polysaccharide-mimics as enzyme-stable substitutes for polysaccharides for various applications. Circumventing the problems associated with the solution-phase synthesis of such polymers, we report here the synthesis of a crystalline polysaccharide-mimic by topochemical polymerization. By crystal engineering, we designed a topochemically reactive crystal of a glucose-mimicking monomer decorated with azide and alkyne units. In the crystal, the monomers arrange in head-to-tail fashion with their azide and alkyne groups in a ready-to-react antiparallel geometry, suitable for their topochemical azide-alkyne cycloaddition (TAAC) reaction. On heating the crystals, these pre-organized monomer molecules undergo regiospecific TAAC polymerization, yielding 1,4-triazolyl-linked pseudopolysaccharide (pseudostarch) in a single-crystal-to-single-crystal manner. This crystalline pseudostarch shows better thermal stability than its amorphous form and many natural polysaccharides.

Topochemical Ene-Azide Cycloaddition Reaction

Topochemical reactions, high-yielding solid-state reactions arising from the proximal alignment of reacting partners in the crystal lattice, do not require solvents, catalysts, and additives are of high demand in the context of green processes and environmental safety. However, the bottleneck is the limited number of reactions that can be done in the crystal medium. We present the topochemical ene-azide cycloaddition (TEAC) reaction, wherein alkene and azide groups undergo lattice-controlled cycloaddition reaction giving triazoline in crystals. A designed monomer that arranges in a head-to-tail manner in its crystals pre-organizing the reacting groups of adjacent molecules in proximity undergoes spontaneous cycloaddition reaction in a single-crystal-to-single-crystal fashion, yielding the triazoline-linked polymer. A unique advantage of this reaction is that the triazoline can be converted to aziridine by simple heating, which we exploited for the otherwise challenging post-synthetic backbone modification of the polymer. This reaction may revolutionize the field of polymer science.

Tight Covalent Organic Framework Membranes for Efficient Anion Transport via Molecular Precursor Engineering

Fabricating covalent organic frameworks (COFs) membranes with tight structure, which can fully utilize well-defined framework structure and thus achieve superior conduction performance, remains a grand challenge. Herein, through molecular precursor engineering of COFs, we reported the fabrication of tight COFs membrane with the ever-reported highest hydroxide ion conductivity over 200 mS cm^-1 at 80 °C, 100 % RH. Six quaternary ammonium-functionalized COFs were synthesized by assembling functional hydrazides and different aldehyde precursors. In an organic-aqueous reaction system, the impact of the aldehyde precursors with different size, electrophilicity and hydrophilicity on the reaction-diffusion process for fabricating COFs membranes was elucidated. Particularly, more hydrophilic aldehydes were prone to push the reaction zone from the interface region to the aqueous phase of the reaction system, the tight membranes were thus fabricated via phase-transfer polymerization process, conferring around 4-8 times the anion conductivity over the loose membranes via interfacial polymerization process.

Interface engineering and integration of two-dimensional polymeric and inorganic materials for advanced hybrid structures

Recent progress and future directions in the creation of hybrid structures based on 2D polymers and inorganic 2D materials are discussed.