Recent Advances in Organic Supramolecular Gels: Self-Assembly and Functional Applications

Abstract

Organic supramolecular gels formed through the self-assembly of π-conjugated molecules such as azobenzenes, coumarins, perylenes, and pyrenes have emerged as versatile materials with diverse functional applications. These gels rely on noncovalent interactions, including hydrogen bonding and π–π stacking, enabling tunable mechanical, optical, and rheological properties. This review explores the self-assembly mechanisms of organic supramolecular gels and their applications in drug delivery, tissue engineering, environmental remediation, and sensing technologies. The relationship between molecular structure and gel performance is critically examined along with recent advancements in enhancing stability and responsiveness. While these materials offer exciting potential, challenges such as mechanical fragility, limited long-term stability, and scalability require further research. Future efforts should focus on designing supramolecular gels with enhanced robustness, biocompatibility, and adaptability to external stimuli. Addressing these limitations will pave the way for next-generation smart materials in biomedical, environmental, and industrial applications.