Force-Promoted Transformations in Mechanically Linked Molecules

The application of external force to mechanical bonds allows for the investigation of how these architectures behave to various levels of force, leading to useful applications in force-responsive systems. This chapter covers different techniques used to study the response of mechanical bonds to a range of forces. Single-molecule force spectroscopy (SMFS) can be used to study responses to force in the pN range, including the disruption and reformation of non-covalent interactions within the component parts of mechanical bonds. Ultrasonication activation has been used to investigate the dissociation mechanism of catenanes and rotaxanes in the nN force regime. Finally, solid-state activation has led to the use of mechanical bonds within force-responsive materials. The studies in this chapter highlight the useful properties of the mechanical bond in the development of force-responsive systems on both the small scale within single molecules and the development of smart materials.