Au(i)-, Ag(i)-, and Pd(ii)-coordination-driven diverse self-assembly of an N-heterocyclic carbene-based amphiphile

Abstract

Au(I)-, Ag(I)-, and Pd(II)-coordination-driven diverse self-assembly of an N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC)-based amphiphile was demonstrated herein. The transition metals had significant effects over the whole system, setting the self-assembly direction of the NHC-based amphiphile. More specifically, Au(I)- and Ag(I)-coordination to the NHC-based amphiphile promoted the formation of spherical and hexagonal structures, while Pd(II)-coordination promoted the formation of cylindrical and lamellar structures.