Stimuli-responsive fluorescent supramolecular polymer network based on a monofunctionalized leaning tower[6]arene

A fluorescent supramolecular polymer network with an excellent triple-stimuli responsive property based on metal–ligand coordination and host–guest interactions has been constructed from a terpyridine-monofunctionalized leaning tower[6]arene, a tetraphenylethylene AIEgen, and a bridging coordination ion (Zn2+). Addition of competitive binding agents, trifluoroacetic acid, and/or pillar[5]arene can break the metal coordination and/or host-guest inclusion complexation, and thermal heating can weaken the non-covalent interactions in the supramolecular polymer gel, all leading to the gel-to-sol transition.