Dynamic Covalent Bond Based on Reversible Photo [4 + 4] Cycloaddition of Anthracene for Construction of Double-Dynamic Polymers

Abstract

Dynamic covalent bonds supplied by reversible anthracene dimerization were combined with pillar[5]arene/imidazole host–guest interactions to construct double-dynamic polymers. Heating such polymers (in solution or as a gel) led to depolymerization by dissociation of either the host–guest complexes alone or the complexes and the anthracene dimers, depending on the extent of heating. The polymers reformed readily upon cooling or irradiation