polymeroidon

Polymeroidon is a term used in speculative and exploratory polymer science to describe a class of synthetic macromolecules that fold into torus-like, closed-loop topologies. The concept blends features of polymers, macrocycles, and foldamers, yielding discrete, interlinked rings with a central void and a predictable, programmable architecture.

Structure and topology

A polymeroidon consists of repeating monomeric modules linked by flexible spacers. The modules are designed to promote intramolecular interactions that drive folding into a toroidal shape, resulting in a hollow, donut-shaped container at the nanoscale. The overall size, cavity dimensions, and wall thickness can be tuned by monomer choice, spacer length, and the strength of non-covalent interactions used to stabilize the torus. Depending on design, polymeroidons may exhibit single-torus or multi-torus assemblies and can include functional groups on the outer surface or the inner cavity.

Synthesis and assembly

Strategies for polymeroidon construction often rely on foldamer principles combined with polymerization methods. Approaches include templated polymerization, cooperative non-covalent self-assembly followed by covalent crosslinking, and controlled polymerization techniques that favor cyclization and toroid formation. The use of directional interactions such as hydrogen bonding, metal coordination, or π–π stacking is common to guide the folding pathway and stabilize the final topology.

Properties and applications

Polymeroidons can display tunable porosity, chemical stability, and selective encapsulation capabilities, alongside potential optical and catalytic functionalities derived from embedded chromophores or reactive centers. They are explored as selective carriers for drug delivery, nanofiltration membranes, and nanoscale reactors, as well as components in photonic or sensing materials. Practical deployment remains experimental, with ongoing work addressing synthesis scalability and precise topology control.

See also

Polymer, macrocycle, foldamer, dendrimer, toroid.