Two-dimensional Supramolecular Polymers Based on Selectively Recognized Aromatic Cation-π and Donor-Acceptor Motifs for Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution

Abstract

Two-dimensional (2D) organic polymers have recently received considerable interest, especially those whose architectures are held together via supramolecular engineering. However, current approaches toward supramolecular 2D structures usually suffer from mutual interference of noncovalent interactions and lack of intrinsic functions. Herein, we report well-regulated 2D supramolecular polymers (2DSPs) through an aromatics-selective recognition strategy of cation-π and donor-acceptor (D-A) motifs, which are derived from C₄-symmetric cationic monomers and electron-withdrawing molecules. By subtly designing the strength and direction of noncovalent driving forces, the mutual interference between cation-π and D-A interactions is effectively avoided, enabling the construction of 2DSPs in aqueous solution. On this basis, the resultant 2DSPs possess boosted photocatalytic hydrogen evolution activity at a rate of 600 μmol g⁻¹ h⁻¹, which is mainly ascribed to the specific stacking mode of cation-π/D-A motifs and the ordered 2D structures.