Smith, David K. orcid.org/0000-0002-9881-2714 (2025) Supramolecular Gels as Active Tools for Reaction Engineering. Angewandte Chemie International Edition. e202502053. ISSN 1433-7851
Abstract
Supramolecular gels assembled from low-molecular-weight gelators (LMWGs) are fascinating soft materials for use in synthesis, combining aspects of hetero- and homogeneous systems. The unique combination of environments within a gel offers the ability to control reactivity in new ways. For example, self-assembly into a gel network can modify the reactivity of catalytic sites on the LMWG. Controlling the assembly of multiple LMWGs can result in integrated gels with orthogonal activities that could not normally co-exist. Enzymes encapsulated within self-assembled gels can exhibit superactivity, extending their use into solvent media more appropriate for organic synthesis. Highly reactive species, such as ligand-free nanoparticles or moisture/air-sensitive organometallics can be protected within the unique environment of a supramolecular gel, facilitating their use in ambient conditions, potentially opening up the use of such species to non-specialist researchers. Beyond fundamental chemistry, performing reactions in gels leads to the emerging concept of gels as ‘nanoreactors’. Smart chemical engineering methods are enabling the fabrication of materials and devices for use in a variety of synthetic workflows, potentially transforming the way synthesis is done. In summary, this review provides an overview of key concepts and signposts the way towards future developments of gels as active tools for reaction engineering.
Metadata
Item Type: | Article |
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Authors/Creators: |
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Copyright, Publisher and Additional Information: | This is an author-produced version of the published paper. Uploaded in accordance with the University’s Research Publications and Open Access policy. |
Dates: |
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Institution: | The University of York |
Academic Units: | The University of York > Faculty of Sciences (York) > Chemistry (York) |
Funding Information: | Funder Grant number EUROPEAN COMMISSION 101072585 |
Depositing User: | Pure (York) |
Date Deposited: | 27 Mar 2025 09:00 |
Last Modified: | 04 Apr 2025 12:10 |
Published Version: | https://doi.org/10.1002/anie.202502053 |
Status: | Published |
Refereed: | Yes |
Identification Number: | 10.1002/anie.202502053 |
Open Archives Initiative ID (OAI ID): | oai:eprints.whiterose.ac.uk:224930 |
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Filename: Angewandte_Reactivity_Review_vREVISIONS_no_highlights.docx
Description: Reaction Engineering Review ACCEPTED AUTHOR VERSION
Licence: CC-BY 2.5
