About this Research Topic

In celebration of the most impactful areas of research in Supramolecular Chemistry, we are proud to present this feature Hot Topic* collection to highlight some of the recent advances in Supramolecular Polymers and Gel research.

The dynamic nature of bonding in supramolecular polymers and gels gives access to a range of interesting properties, such as self-healing, processibility, and reversible state changes in response to external stimuli. As a result, these materials are at the forefront of various applied research studies, from biomedical fields (drug delivery, implants, tissue engineering etc.) to optoelectronics (conducting polymers, solar cells, transistors etc.). However, in comparison to conventional polymers formed via covalent bonding, the field of supramolecular polymers and gels is still in its infancy. New insights around the design and fundamental properties of these materials are required in order to unlock their full potential.

This Research Topic aims to cover recent advances in various aspects of Supramolecular Polymers and Gels, including (but not limited to):
• The design of new monomer structures for supramolecular polymers and gels
• Studies on the formation of polymers mediated by non-covalent interactions
• Emergent properties of supramolecular polymers and gels

*Hot Topic collections are hand-selected in collaboration with our Chief Editors, with the aim to feature the most cutting-edge research within a given field of chemistry. As such, submissions to this collection will benefit from increased visibility via promotion on social media and at conferences.

Keywords: Supramolecular Polymer, Supramolecular Gel, Self-healing, dynamic bond, Hot Topic

Important Note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.