While nature has long utilized anthocyanin family having flavyliums as vibrant chromophores to create color through complex chemical equilibria, these dynamic systems remain largely neglected in functional polymer design. This presentation demonstrates a robust strategy to bridge the gap between natural colorant chemistry and advanced materials science.
We report the precision synthesis of flavylium-functionalized polymers, achieved through RAFT polymerization and selective post-modification of acetophenone moieties. By harnessing the distinct chemical signatures of the flavylium species, we have engineered a "smart" system that exhibits high-level sensitivity to four independent stimuli: pH, light, temperature, and solvent polarity.
The core of this work explores how molecular-level equilibrium shifts modulated by the polymer backbone are translated into tunable macroscopic behaviors. Using profile analysis tensiometry (PAT), we reveal how these environmental stimuli dictate surface activity and critical aggregation concentrations (CAC). Finally, we provide a deep dive into the formation of unique fractal-like aggregates, using Cryo-EM and Small-Angle X-ray Scattering (SAXS). This study offers a new blueprint for developing multi-stimuli-responsive soft matter with programmable, bio-inspired self-assembly opening doors for advanced applications in adaptive coatings and responsive sensors.