Multicomponent Self-Assembly: Generation of Rigid-Rack Multimetallic Pseudorotaxanes

The rigid linear ligands 1a−g and the macrocycle 2 undergo self-assembly via coordination with copper(I) ions to generate the series of rigid-rack inorganic pseudorotaxanes 3a−g. These complexes have been characterized by analytical and spectroscopic methods. Their architecture has been confirmed by determination of the crystal structures of 3e,f. The complex [Cu2(1e)(2)2](PF6)2 (3e) crystallizes in the space group C2/c, whereas complex [Cu2(1f)(2)2](PF6)2 (3f) gives crystals containing a single enantiomer in the chiral space group P212121. The synthesis and solution structures of 3a−g and the solid-state structures of 3e,f are discussed in relation to the viability of multicomponent self-assembly as an approach to linear metal-ion arrays.