Structure–property relationship of a class of efficient organogelators and their multistimuli responsiveness

A new class of efficient low-molecular-weight gelators composed of a 2-substituted anthraquinone and a hydrazide subunit were synthesized, and the structure–property relationships with respect to their gelation abilities in organic solvents were investigated. The toluene gels showed exceptional thermal stability. Interestingly, it was also found that the ultrasound radiation could promote 1b–e to form a stable organogels instead of precipitates in polar solvent, and the ultrasound could remarkably induce changes of the morphology of the assembly in pyridine. Moreover, the reversible gel to sol phase transition could be achieved by adding TFA and TEA. The gelators 1b–e further showed selective gelation of aromatic solvents or chloroalkanes from their mixtures with water.