Halogen bonding for the design of functional materials

This thesis investigates the potential of σ-hole halogen bonds (XBs) as supramolecular interactions for developing functional materials. XBs are highly tunable and linear, making them ideal for applications such as anion recognition, sensing, catalysis, and polymer design. The work focuses on design and synthesis of iridium(III) complexes that utilize XBs for sensitive anion sensing. These complexes were modified to enhance their sensitivity and enable functionalization with polymer materials, leading to improved sensor performance. Additionally, XB-based polymers with shape-memory and self-healing properties were developed. These polymers were thoroughly characterized to understand their structure property relations. The thesis demonstrates that XBs are a versatile platform for designing innovative materials with tailored functionalities. The ability to fine-tune XB interactions opens new avenues for creating advanced sensors, smart materials, and responsive systems. Overall, the research highlights the significant role of σ-hole halogen bonds in the development of next-generation functional materials with broad applications.