Cascade covalent and coordination bond formation for Ti-based cage assembly: catalysis and coordination bifunctionality of TiCl4

Abstract

The metallosupramolecular Ti-based M₄L₄ cage of [Ti₄O₂L₄Cl₈] (L = 4-acetamidobenzoic acid) is synthesized via the one-pot solvothermal reaction of 4-aminobenzoic acid, acetic acid and TiCl₄. The Ti(IV) ion functions as a Lewis acid catalyst for acylation condensation, and then coordinates with the resultant 4-acetamidobenzoic acid to afford Ti-based cage formation in a cascade fashion.