CHAPTER 3: Supramolecular Hydrogels

The supramolecular cross-linking of polymer chains in water has led to the development of novel hydrogel materials with dynamic behaviour and properties and a wide variety of potential applications. We present here a thorough overview of the formation of transient polymeric networks, with particular emphasis on those systems based on host-guest interactions. Aqueous supramolecular chemistry at this point of its research has allowed unlocking a toolbox for the design and fine-tuning of the properties of the hydrogels.