Synthesis of a Porphyrin(2.1.2.1) Nanobelt and Its Ability To Bind Fullerene.

This Letter details a simple and effective method to synthesize a porphyrin(2.1.2.1)-based nanobelt NBNi3 via condensation reactions of 1,2,4,5-tetra(pyrrol-2-yl)benzene and benzaldehydes. NBNi3 consists of three arch-shaped porphyrins(2.1.2.1) and benzene linkages with a C3 h-symmteric structure. The concave-shaped cavity of NBNi3 behaves as a C60 receptor by capturing two C60 cooperatively. Additionally, NBNi3 exhibits reversible oxidation and reduction peaks with five electrons in each peak, indicating that the shape of the nanobelt can stabilize multicationic and anionic states.