Title: Isoreticular Covalent Organic Pillars: Engineered Nanotubular Hosts for Tailored Molecular Recognition

Authors: Shengnan Gao,† Yunlong Guo,† Jingfeng Xue, Xue Dong, Xiao-Yu Cao, and Andrew C.-H. Sue*

Abstract: In the realm of nanoscale materials design, achieving precise control over the dimensions of nanotubular architectures poses a substantial challenge. In our ongoing pursuit, we have successfully engineered a novel class of single-molecule nanotubes-isoreticular covalent organic pillars (iCOPs)-by stacking formylated macrocycles through multiple dynamic covalent imine bonds, guided by principles of reticular chemistry. Our strategic selection of rigid diamine linkers has facilitated the synthesis of a diverse array of iCOPs, each retaining a homologous structure yet offering distinct cavity shapes influenced by the linker choice. Notably, three of these iCOP variants feature continuous one-dimensional channels, exhibiting length-dependent host−guest interactions with α,ω-dibromoalkanes, and each presenting a distinct critical guest alkyl chain length threshold for efficient guest encapsulation. This newfound capability not only provides a platform for tailoring nanotubular structures with precision, but also opens new avenues for innovative applications in molecular recognition and the purification of complex mixtures.

Full-Link: https://doi.org/10.1021/jacs.4c05852