Exploiting Supramolecular Dynamics in Metal–Phenolic Networks to Generate Metal–Oxide and Metal–Carbon Networks

Supramolecular complexation is a powerful strategy for engineering materials in bulk and at interfaces. Metal–phenolic networks (MPNs), which are assembled through supramolecular complexes, have emerged as suitable candidates surface particle owing to their diverse properties. Herein, we examine the dynamics of MPNs during thermal transformation processes. Changes local network including enlarged pores, ordered aromatic packing, metal relocation arise from treatment air or an inert atmosphere, enabling metal–oxide (MONs) metal–carbon networks, respectively. Furthermore, by integrating photo-responsive motifs (i.e., TiO2) silanization, MONs endowed with reversible superhydrophobic (>150°) superhydrophilic (?0°) By highlighting thermodynamics into materials, this work offers versatile pathway advanced engineering.