Synthesis and inclusion properties of new nitrated C2− symmetric diquinoline hosts

Abstract

The non-host 6,7,14,15-tetrahydro-6,14-methanocycloocta[1,2-b : 5,6-b′]diquinoline3 was nitrated to yield its C_2⁻ symmetric dinitro analogues 6 and 7. Both derivatives acted as lattice inclusion hosts in accord with our molecular design. The four X-ray crystal structures reported proved to be very different from each other and are analysed and compared. Although the nitro group does participate in weak intermolecular associations, its major function is shown to be a spoiler group that disrupts simple packing and thereby encourages guest inclusion.