Introduction of heterofunctional groups onto molecular hexagons via coordination-driven self-assembly.

The design and synthesis of two new heterofunctional hexagons containing both redox-active ferrocenyl and host-guest crown ether functionalities has been achieved via coordination-driven self-assembly. The size and relative distribution of functional groups on the supramolecular metallacycles can be precisely controlled. The host-guest recognition properties of the crown ether moieties and their ability to complex cationic guests to form tris[2]pseudorotaxane complexes have been investigated. The electronic properties of the ferrocenyl moieties have been obtained through electrochemical studies. The functional moieties are shown to operate orthogonally, resulting in discrete supramolecular hexagons that are capable of carrying out a variety of functions both simultaneously and independently.