Introducing Defects into Metal-Seamed Nanocapsules Using Mixed Macrocycles

The synthesis and single-crystal
X-ray diffraction structure of
a dimeric zinc-seamed nanocapsule using a mixed pyrogallol/resorcinol[4]­arene
are presented. The use of “mixed” macrocycles results
in an incomplete seam of coordination bonds around the nanocapsule’s
typically octa-metalated belt. The self-assembly of the nanocapsule
occurs such that the single resorcinol moiety of each macrocycle aligns
transversely. This yields a hepta-metalated capsule where the defect
occurs in such a way as to provide minimal disruption to the overall
structure of the nanocapsule.