Self-Assembly of Molecular Capsules in\nPolar Solvents

Abstract

We present a novel type of molecular capsule formed by self-organization of calix[4]arenes with several oppositely charged functional groups\nlocated at their upper rims. In highly polar solvents, the complementary half-spheres form stable 1:1 complexes with association constants\nof up to 7 × 10⁵ M^-1 in methanol. The cavity inside the capsules is large enough for the inclusion of small aliphatic or (hetero)aromatic guest\nmolecules.