A calix[4]arene dimer, linked by a light-responsive azobenzene bridge, undergoes controllable and reversible cis/trans isomerization under photochemical and thermal conditions.  This compound may be employed as a molecular container in which the 'closed' cis form captures electron-deficient guest species by virtue of the convergent hemispheres of the host.  The guest could be released by triggering isomerization of the azobenzene back to the 'open' trans form.  A variety of ammonium, pyridinium, and diimidazolium ions are being examined for their ability to bind strongly with the cis form (but weakly with the trans form) of the calixarene-capped azobenzene.

Host-guest recognition in a photoswitchable calixarene-capped azobenzene dimer

245th National Meeting (2013)

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