Metallo-supramolecular diethylene glycol : water-soluble reversible polymers

Bis(2,2:6,2-terpyrid-4-yl) diethylene glycol was synthesized as a monomer unit and further utilized for polymerization with FeCl2 in order to form water-soluble coordination polymers. Viscosity measurements and film-forming properties indicate the formation of linear coordination polymers or larger ring structures. The terpyridine/iron(II) complexes are stable up to temperatures of 210 °C, but can be uncomplexed by the addition of an excess of a strong competitive ligand (HEDTA) under mild conditions.