Synthesis and characterization of supramolecular polymeric materials containing azopyridine units

The synthesis and characterization of a series of supramolecular polymeric complexes formes by H-bonding interactions between benzoic and azopyridine derivatives are described. A series of polymeric networks have been synthesized using a polymethacrylate bearing benzoic acid units as side groups, and several polymers with azopyridine as H-acceptor side groups. Furthermore, low-molecular-weight pyridine derivatives have been used to prepare an homologous side-chain polymer, and a network with azopyridine as a non-covalent crosslinker. Special attention was paid to the thermal and mesomorphic properties of these materials, which were studied by DSC, POM, and XRD.