Precise three-dimensional supramacromolecule interconversions

A process for precise self-assembly and re-arrangement of a three-dimensional terpyridine-based coordination complex, the process comprising the steps of:

• reacting a plurality of terpyridine-containing poly-ligand monomer molecules with at least one metal ion, wherein the metal is selected from the group consisting of Fe+2, Ru+2, Os+2, Ir+2, Zn+2, Sn+2, Cu+2, Ni+2, Ba+2, Mg+2, Mn+2, Cu+2, Pb+2, Ca+2, Cd+2, and combinations thereof, to form a self-assembled three-dimensional terpyridine-based first coordination complex having a first configuration;
• and
• exposing said first coordination complex to a triggering event selected from the group consisting of change in temperature, change in pressure, change in concentration, exposure to radiation, and combinations thereof, whereupon said first coordination complex re-arranges to form at least two smaller, substantially identical, three-dimensional terpyridine-based coordination complexes, each having a second configuration that is different from the first configuration.