Significance Molecular weight determinations play a vital role in the characterization of supramolecular polymers. They are essential to assessing the degree of polymerization, which in turn can have a significant… Click to show full abstract
Significance Molecular weight determinations play a vital role in the characterization of supramolecular polymers. They are essential to assessing the degree of polymerization, which in turn can have a significant impact on the properties of the polymer. While numerous characterization methods have been developed to estimate the number-average molecular weight (Mn) of supramolecular polymers, a simple visual method could provide advantages in terms of ease of use. We have now developed a system wherein differences in the fluorescent signature, including changes in color, allow variations in the Mn of an anion-responsive supramolecular polymer [M1·Zn(OTf)2]n to be readily monitored. The present visual differentiation strategy provides a tool that may be used to characterize supramolecular polymers.
               
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