Chirality transfer and stereo-selectivity of imprinted cholesteric networks

TL;DR

This paper investigates how imprinted cholesteric networks can transfer chirality to molecular components, enabling stereo-selective adsorption and release, with controllable reversibility based on network properties and solvent interactions.

Contribution

It demonstrates the control of stereoselectivity and reversibility in cholesteric networks through manipulation of elastic properties and solvent interactions, advancing understanding of chirality transfer mechanisms.

Findings

Chirality transfer from macroscopic to molecular scale is achievable.

Network properties influence stereo-selective adsorption and release.

Reversibility of stereo-selectivity can be controlled with racemic solvents.

Abstract

Imprinting of cholesteric textures in a polymer network is a method of preserving a macroscopically chiral phase in a system with no molecular chirality. By modifying the elastics properties of the network, the resulting stored helical twist can be manipulated within a wide range since the imprinting efficiency depends on the balance between the elastics constants and twisting power at network formation. One spectacular property of phase chirality imprinting is the created ability of the network to adsorb preferentially one stereo-component from a racemic mixture. In this paper we explore this property of chirality transfer from a macroscopic to the molecular scale. In particular, we focus on the competition between the phase chirality and the local nematic order. We demonstrate that it is possible to control the subsequent release of chiral solvent component from the imprinting network and the reversibility of the stereo-selective swelling by racemic solvents.