Reversible side chain modification through noncovalent interactions. "Plugand play" polymers

Polystyrene-based systems with varying donor-acceptor-donor (D-A-D) hydroge n bonding side chains were synthesized. Recognition interactions between th ese polymers and guest flavin 5 were studied through H-1 NMR titration expe riments. Using these systems, we have shown that the efficiency of recognit ion between the polymer and guest can be controlled through the choice of r ecognition element on the polymer by adjusting the balance between intra- a nd intermolecular interactions. The versatility of this "plug and play" str ategy was readily extended to bulk materials. Using spin casting, we kineti cally trapped these host-guest complexes in polystyrene films, resulting in highly efficient recognition processes, a key prerequisite for creation of supramolecular devices.