Metallopolymers as functional materials for multiple applications

Metallopolymers have emerged as a new type of advanced materials for multiple applications, involving nanoscience, energy storage and conversion, catalysis, as well as biomedicine. Metal components play a significant role in the performances and functionalities of metallopolymers, and can endow metallopolymers with unique optical, magnetic, electronic, catalytic and redox characteristics. In addition, the polymer backbones also provide good mechanical, processing and soluble properties to broaden the practicability of metallopolymers. Metal centers can be incorporated into polymer main chain, side chain or network to produce various metallopolymers. The current research interests are to design and develop functional metallopolymers with specific structures and required properties for valuable applications. This review focuses on recent advances of metallopolymers for multiple applications, such as self-assembly, biomaterials, optoelectronic materials, catalysis, smart gels and microgels, and ion-exchange membranes. This review is expected to give some insight into metallopolymers for developing the desired functional materials.