November 12, 2023
Tew Group
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Research entitled "Network Constitutional Isomers" was recently published by Brandon R Clarke* and Gregory N. Tew* in Macromolecules. Using simple variation of catalyst concentration we alter the topology of networks, introducing isomerization as a tool for altering network properties. Specifically, we illustrate how the kinetic chain length (RK) is a pivotal variable for macromolecular network structure, despite being ignored during the long history of network science. These findings inform our ability to program unique and interesting properties related to fracture and adhesion through incredibly simple tweaks in polymerization chemistry.