Transformation Network Culminating in a Heteroleptic Cd₆L₆L′₂ Twisted Trigonal Prism

Transformations between
three-dimensional metallosupramolecular
assemblies can enable switching between the different functions of
these structures. Here we report a network of such transformations,
based upon a subcomponent displacement strategy. The flow through
this network is directed by the relative reactivities of different
amines, aldehydes, and di­(2-pyridyl)­ketone. The network provides access
to an unprecedented heteroleptic Cd6L6L′2 twisted trigonal prism.
The principles underpinning this network thus allow for the design
of diverse structural transformations, converting one helicate into
another, a helicate into a tetrahedron, a tetrahedron into a different
tetrahedron, and a tetrahedron into the new trigonal prismatic structure
type. The selective conversion from one host to another also enabled
the uptake of a desired guest from a mixture of guests.