Self-Assembly of Convex and Concave Molecular Tectons to Form a Linear Molecular Array in the Solid State

摘要

With our present level of knowledge, the complete understanding and subsequent prediction of all intermolecular interactions in the crystalline phase seems illusive. Therefore, it appears that crystal structures are not predictable. However, followingthe statement by Jack Dunitz: "A crystal is, in a sense, the supramolecule par excellence", one may predict some of the intermotive interactions by using proper molecular modules. The design of molecular networks in the solid state is a subject of current interest. The strategy followed for the formation of molecular networks relies on a double analysis. That at the molecular level deals with the individual modules composing the solid, and the other at the supramolecular level deals with the intermotive or intermolecular interactions. Obviously the latter type of analysis is more subtle. For the design and synthesis of molecular networks, the approach called molecular tectonics, which is based on the self-assembly of structurally defined and energetically programmed complementary tectons, seems to be viable. The most important operational concepts in molecular tectonics are molecular recognition between tectons and geometrical features encoded within the framework of the tecton that allow iteration.The latter requires exoreceptor molecules possessing recognition sites that point in divergent directions.