Ultrarapid and efficient sequestration of iodate and iodide with a pillar[5]arene-based cationic polymeric network

A macrocycle-based approach to the construction of a cationic polymeric network with pillar[5]arene as the node for efficient sequestration of hazardous IO₃^- and I^- is presented. Ultrafast kinetics (ca. 4 min) were achieved along with excellent adsorption capacities for both IO₃^- (456 mg g^-1) and I^- (370 mg g^-1), good selectivity, and outstanding reusability. This work showcases the merits of pillar[5]arene as nodes in cationic adsorption materials in the removal of anionic iodine species.