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 R.sup.9 is independently selected from the group consisting of alkyl, cycloalkyl, aryl, heteroaryl, and ether. Each instance of R.sup.28 and R.sup.29 of Formula (IV) is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, alkyl, cycloalkyl, and aryl. Each instance of R.sup.33 of Formula (IV) is independently selected from the group consisting of alkyl, cycloalkyl, aryl, heterocyclyl, and a bond. Each instance of R.sup.41 of Formula (IV) is independently NH or a bond and each instance of R.sup.40 is independently NH or NHNH. Each instance of R.sup.42 of Formula (IV) is independently NH or a bond and each instance of R.sup.43 is independently NH or NHNH.