Supramolecular Crystal Networks Constructed from Cucurbit[8]uril with Two Naphthyl Groups

Abstract

Naphthyl groups are widely used as building blocks for the self-assembly of supramolecular crystal networks. Host–guest complexation of cucurbit[8]uril (Q[8]) with two guests NapA and Nap1 in both aqueous solution and solid state has been fully investigated. Experimental data indicated that double guests resided within the cavity of Q[8], generating highly stable homoternary complexes NapA2@Q[8] and Nap12@Q[8]. Meanwhile, the strong hydrogen-bonding and π···π interaction play critical roles in the formation of 1D supramolecular chain, as well as 2D and 3D networks in solid state.