Main-chain and pendant poly([2]catenane)s incorporating complementary π-electron-rich and -deficient components

A main-chain poly([2]catenane), incorporating an average of 25 repeating [2]catenane units and having an M_n value of 35 kg mol-1, was synthesized by the polyesterification of a [2]catenane monomer composed of a bipyridinium-based tetracationic cyclophane mechanically interlocked with a 1,5-dioxynaphthalene-based macrocyclic polyether. Similarly, two main-chain poly(bis[2]catenane)s, both incorporating an average of 15 repeating bis[2]catenane units and both having M_n values of 45 kg mol^-1, were prepared by the copolymerizations of a bis[2]catenane monomer, possessing two hydroxymethyl functions with an appropriate bis(isocyanate). The same copolymerization was employed in order to produce a pendant poly([2]catenane), incorporating an average of 20 repeating [2]catenane units and having an M_n value of 27 kg mol^-1, from a [2]catenane monomer possessing two hydroxymethyl groups on its macrocyclic polyether component.