Cyclodextrin Rotaxane Gel Materials
摘要
Cyclodextrin-based polyrotaxane gels represent a unique class of supramolecular polymer materials with movable cross-linking points. In conventional polymer networks, stress concentrates on shorter chains between fixed cross-links, limiting toughness. In contrast, polyrotaxane gels are formed by crosslinking cyclodextrins threaded onto polyethylene glycol chains, creating a topological network in which crosslinking points can slide along the polymer backbone. This pulley-like mechanism efficiently redistributes stress, resulting in remarkably high toughness. The concept has also been extended to rubbers, resins, and composite materials, significantly improving mechanical durability. Owing to their ability to enhance material longevity and performance, rotaxane polymers are expected to play an important role in sustainable polymer technologies.