Abstract
We have recently developed novel gel-forming materials based on organic electrolytes. The organic electrolytes can be prepared by a simple one-pot reaction applicable to large scale production. The materials show the following remarkable characteristics. (a) They can be used for gelation of not only water but also electrolyte solutions of polar organic solvents including ionic liquids. (b) Rapid self-healing of the formed gel is possible even after collapse by mechanical stress. (c) The formed gel can be used as an efficient dispersant for single-walled carbon nanotubes. The materials have been commercially distributed as chemical reagents for gelation.
