Aspects of the present disclosure relate to Schiff base oligomers and uses thereof. In at least one aspect, an oligomer is represented by Formula (IV) wherein each instance of R9 is independently selected from the group consisting of alkyl, cycloalkyl, aryl, heteroaryl, and ether. Each instance of R28 and R29 of Formula (IV) is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, alkyl, cycloalkyl, and aryl. Each instance of R33 of Formula (IV) is independently selected from the group consisting of alkyl, cycloalkyl, aryl, heterocyclyl, and a bond. Each instance of R41 of Formula (IV) is independently —NH— or a bond and each instance of R40 is independently —NH— or —NH—NH—. Each instance of R42 of Formula (IV) is independently —NH— or a bond and each instance of R43 is independently —NH— or —NH—NH—.