Two-component supramolecular organogels formed by maleic N-monoalkylamides and aliphatic amines

The complexes of maleic N-monoalkylamides and aliphatic amines gelatinize a number of organic solvents via acid–base interactions and intermolecular hydrogen bonding. [Display omitted] ► Two-component gelators are comprised of maleic N-monoalkylamides and aliphatic amines. ► Two-component gelators form sheet-like and fiber-shaped aggregates in diverse organic solvents. ► The local microstructure of aggregates in the organogels has been obtained. The complexes of maleic N-monoalkylamides and aliphatic amines lead to the formation of sheet-like and fiber-shaped aggregates in diverse organic solvents. Their morphologies and microstructures were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), scanning electron microscope (SEM), as well as small angle X-ray diffraction (SA-XRD). The results reveal that the alkyl chain lengths of 8–12 carbons for maleic N-monoalkylamides, and 12–18 carbons for aliphatic amines, are suitable for obtaining highly efficient two-component gelators.