The dynamic covalent reaction based on diselenide-containing crown ether irradiated by visible light

A novel diselenide-containing crown ether (BC7Se2) was fabricated, which can polymerize to form cyclic oligomers through intermolecular dynamic covalent reaction by irradiation of visible light. The size and distribution of oligomers are related to the monomer concentration. The decomposition reaction of oligomers is controlled by topology and solvents. Furthermore, potassium cation can inhibit the polymerization of BC7Se2 and accelerate the decomposition of oligomers.