Visualizing molecular weights differences in supramolecular polymers

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 ( M n ) 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 M n 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.