Unraveling the self-assembly modes in multicomponent supramolecular gels using single-crystal X-ray diffraction

The control and prediction of the self-assembly process in multicomponent supramolecular gels are challenging because the structure and properties rely mostly on the geometry and spatial arrangement of the building blocks. The understanding of noncovalent interactions between the individual gelators at the molecular level will enable us to tune the gelation properties of multicomponent gels. We have studied the self-assembly process of multicomponent gel based on enantiomers and herin we report the first crystallographic evidence of specific co-assembly in mixed enantiomeric gel, which is supported by scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy images. The mode of interactions between the individual gelators from the molecular to macroscopic level, which are responsible for co-assembled fibers, was identified by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. We have proved that specific co-assembly leads to enhanced mechanical and thermal stability in the mixed gel compared to the meso and individual enantiomeric gels.