Gelator Capable of Generating Rotaxane-Cross-link (Topological Cross-link)

Abstract

As for gels possessing rotaxane-cross-links (or topological cross-links) of which characteristics are movable polymer chains at the cross-link points, that have recently collected much attention, the synthetic methods of them are summarized mainly from the viewpoint of gelator. In addition, the application of the methods to the synthesis of gels showing thermo-responsibility and recyclability and their properties are described for the discussion on the meaning of the rotaxane-cross-link.