Cavity-Containing Supramolecular Gels as a Tool for Orthogonal Self-assembly Crystallization Processes

• Applicant: Dr. Lena Kaufmann
• Subject Area: Organic Molecular Chemistry - Synthesis and Characterisation
• Term: from 2013 to 2015
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 250805915

The aim of this project is to establish orthogonal self-assembly crystallization processes in which gelator and crystallization system form a weakly coupled arrangement. This technique of non-equilibrium orthogonal self-assembly crystallization offers great advantages as it provides a high surface area of exposed gel fibres where the crystal growth occurs through a diffusion and nucleation-controlled process. For these new low molecular weight supramolecular gels containing bowl-shaped molecules will be synthesized and their gel formation behavior as well as its reversibility by external stimuli will be studied. These gels will be engaged for orthogonal self-assembly crystallization processes which have the potential to become a new tool in pharmaceutical polymorph screening by use of the active surface of the gel fibres to control the nucleation of the drug solid form.

• DFG Programme: Research Fellowships
• International Connection: United Kingdom
• Host: Professor Dr. Jonathan Steed