Anthracene-resorcin[4]arene-based capsules: Synthesis and photoswitchable features

Abstract

Herein we present the synthesis and the photochemical behavior of several new hemicarcerands containing anthracene units as photoactive species. By means of NMR investigations of compounds 9 and 11 the dimerization mode was revealed as a 9,10-9′,10′-dimerization, classically known from anthracene. Nevertheless only compound 11 could be converted to the opened form upon irradiation with 300 nm. Reopening of compounds 9 and 10 could not be achieved so far either by heating or by irradiation.