Novel Intelligent Photon-Encoding Gel with Dynamically Switching Supramolecular Networks

The microscopically structural switching of supramolecular networks endows programmable gel materials with dynamic hiding properties and functionalities. However, the reconstruction of supramolecular network will destroy the programming information imprinted on the original network structure, making it difficult to restore to the original state. Here, a novel intelligent programmable photonic gel composed of cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) and acrylamide is constructed. The mechanical properties and optical signals of gel can be switched reversibly on demand by reasonably designing the winding and compression between molecular structures. Under this conversion mechanism, the rigid "skeleton" constructed from the CNC chiral structure perfectly acts as the coding substrate. Importantly, even after multiple dynamic switching of the supramolecular network, the encoded information can be displayed completely and accurately on the CNC chiral structure in the stretched state. In addition, the 5D controllable conversion of stiffness, transparency, stretchability, color, and shape greatly improves the security and confidentiality of the encoded information inside the gel. This is a successful example of the application of CNC chiral structure in switchable supramolecular network materials. It is believed that the flexible variability and advanced camouflage give the intelligent gel the potential to be used in a wider range of practical scenarios. This work has constructed a novel intelligent programmable photonic gel composed of cellulose nanocrystals and acrylamide, which can achieve reversible switching of mechanical properties and optical signals as required. This is a successful example of the application of cellulose nanocrystals chiral structure in switchable supramolecular network materials.image