The ultimate example of functional polymers can be found in nature. The use of well-defined macromolecules and their organisation into well-defined (reversible) architectures leads to the formation of large and complicated systems with the DNA double helix, haemoglobin and collagen as perhaps the most prominent examples. Inspired by the wealth, and the enormous economic potential of biomacromolecules, polymer chemists are pursuing the translation of the principles of both absolute synthetic control, and the principles of supramolecular chemistry, into synthetic polymeric materials.
This presentation will deal with the in general invisible life of industrially produced functional polymers. The use of these workhorses in our daily life will shortly be reviewed with the focus on the use of functional polymers in pharma and cosmetic applications. In addition, a hydrogen-bonded polymer network based on the strong dimerising ureido-pyrimidinone unit will be discussed.