Data for: Immobilization of molecular catalysts on electrode surfaces using host–guest interactions

Anchoring molecular catalysts on electrode surfaces combines the high
selectivity and activity of molecular systems with the practicality of
heterogeneous systems. Molecular catalysts, however, are far less stable
than traditional heterogeneous electrocatalysts, and therefore a method to
easily replace anchored molecular catalysts that have degraded could make
such electrosynthetic systems more attractive. Here, we apply a
non-covalent ‘click’ chemistry approach to reversibly bind molecular
electrocatalysts to electrode surfaces through host–guest complexation
with surface-anchored cyclodextrins. The host–guest interaction is
remarkably strong and enables the flow of electrons between the electrode
and the guest catalyst. Electrosynthesis in both organic and aqueous media
was demonstrated on metal oxide electrodes, with stability on the order of
hours. The catalytic surfaces can be recycled by controlled release of the
guest from the host cavities and readsorption of fresh guest.