The rise of artificial molecular machines (AMMs) is accompanied with the promise of establishing new molecular functions. In this talk, following an introduction on the nature of the mechanical bond, I will discuss our recent advances on AMMs capable of operating by pH- and/or redox-controlled oscillations, putting emphasis on those that make use of electricity for producing polyrotaxanes. Controlling relative movements of the components of machines on the molecular scale represents a milestone for current research on AMMs. Although unidirectional motion has been established in diverse artificial systems, inverting the process-direction in response to different stimuli represents a formidable challenge. We are developing a dual responsive molecular motor capable of working in either clockwise or anti-clockwise directions, simply depending on how pH- and redox-oscillations are synchronized during a four-stroke cycle. Performing work at the nanoscale without generating and accumulating waste products is an appealing aspect regarding the applications of AMMs. Recently, we reported on the use of controlled potential electrolysis driving the operation of artificial molecular pumps in solution. We have used prototypes bearing two molecular pumps at the termini of polymeric chains, which act as collecting chains for multiple cyclobis(paraquat-p-phenylene) (CBPQT<sup>4+</sup>) rings. We show that enthalpically and entropically demanding, slid-ring polyrotaxanes can be made progressively through the controlled supply of electricity.<br/>

Radical chemistry in the design and synthesis of artificial molecular machines

2019 Spring National Meeting

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