From statistical mixtures to structural insights: characterisation of heterometallic [M4L6]8+ coordination cages using high resolution ion mobility mass spectrometry

Abstract

Using high-resolution ion mobility-mass spectrometry (IM-MS), we demonstrate the resolution and characterisation of heterobimetallic [M₄L₆]⁸⁺ coordination cages, enabling the identification and interrogation of individual mixed metal assemblies from complex mixtures. IM-MS guided synthesis represents a paradigm shift in the development of supramolecular sensors and catalysts that embrace complexity rather than exclusively pure materials.