Deep-cavity cavitands have been shown to serve as molecular recognition agents for short and long-chain alkanes, steroids, as well other hydrophobic guests (figure 1). Octa-acid (OA) deep-cavity cavitand has also been utilized for the sequestration and storage of hydrocarbon gases, kinetic resolution of constitutionally similar isomers, and as yoctolitre reaction vessels. Recently, within our group, cavitands have also been shown to serve as the ‘guest’ molecule in more complex systems. Additionally, OA has also been utilized to probe the Hofmeister effect for the binding of anions in aqueous solution.<br/>The focus of this project is two-fold: to develop novel water-soluble container molecules and to study their binding and assembly profiles—specifically as they are changed by the incorporation of various functional groups at the periphery of the cavitand. Additionally, we will discuss the synthetic route to the cavitand utilized in our study, as well as functional modifications to the cavitand core which may take place at the <i>endo, exo, </i>or outer rim positions (figure 2), which engender potentially interesting complexation and assembly properties in their own right.<br/>Towards aim one, we will discuss novel synthesis of different resorcinarene-based cavitand derivitaves, particularly in the design and functionalization of octa-acid deep-cavity cavitand. Whilst, towards aim two, we will focus on host-guest chemistry in aqueous solution.

Studies of deep-cavity cavitands

251st National Meeting (2016)

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