Supramolecular Glasses

Supramolecular glasses are amorphous materials formed through non-covalent interactions between molecular building blocks. These interactions allow the formation of disordered but dynamic networks that differ from conventional inorganic or polymeric glasses. This chapter explores the fundamental concepts, design principles, and characterization methods that underpin the formation of supramolecular glasses. Key thermodynamic and kinetic factors that influence glass formation are discussed, along with the role of molecular design in controlling properties such as the glass transition temperature, optical transparency, and mechanical strength. The chapter also presents examples of small-molecule, oligomeric, and multicomponent systems that form supramolecular glasses, and outlines their potential use in flexible electronics, self-healing materials, and sustainable technologies. Future directions include the development of programmable supramolecular glasses that combine modularity, adaptability, and reprocessability, thereby bridging the gap between conventional glassy materials and dynamic soft matter.