Unusual recognition of (n-Bu4N)2SO4 by a cyanuric acid based hostvia contact ion-pair interactions

Abstract

A tripodal neutral receptor selectively binds tetrabutylammonium sulfate where anion is encapsulated in the cavity and cations are in close contact with the anion via C–H⋯O interactions. This organic cation capped sulfate-bowl exists both in solid and solution states and the sulfate assisted cap can be opened and closed reversibly with a temperature key.