Designing structurally tunable and functionally versatile synthetic supercontainers

Abstract

We describe the design of a new family of molecular containers, namely, type IV metal–organic supercontainers (MOSCs), which are constructed from the assembly of a container precursor p-tert-butylsulfonylcalix[4]arene, Co(II) or Ni(II) ion, and angular flexible dicarboxylate linkers. The combination of structural robustness and tunability of these cylinder-shaped MOSCs makes them highly attractive supramolecular hosts. The type IV MOSCs exhibit a diverse range of supramolecular functions, including their selective binding with cationic guests and their tunable activity to modulate both stoichiometric and catalytic reactions, which are not readily accessible in the molecular precursors.