Supramolecular polymer is broadly defined as any type of an assembly formed from one or more molecular components via reversible bonds; therefore, monomeric and polymeric states are in equilibrium over the relevant experimental timescale. Structural and dynamic properties of supramolecular polymers, including the degree of polymerization (DP), chain lifetime and conformational flexibility, are influenced by external stimuli; thus, these result in supramolecular ‘smart’ materials, which offer adaptivity that leads to easy fabrication, stimuli responsiveness and self-healing at the forefront of science and engineering. This review will focus on the recent developments in supramolecular polymers composed of discrete repeating units, as well as novel supramolecular materials produced by the interplay of supramolecular and polymer chemistry.
