Evolution of nano- to microsized spherical assemblies of a short oligo(p-phenyleneethynylene) into superstructured organogels

Abstract

A subtle balance of H-bonding, π-stacking, and van der waals interactions facilitates the concentration-controlled self-assembly of a short molecular wire (see figure) into nanoparticles and fluorescent microspheres in nonpolar hydrocarbon solvents. Above a critical concentration, a blue-light emitting organogel is formed.