Towards a rational design of molecular switches and sensors from their basic building blocks

Nicolle N P Moonen, Amar H. Flood, Juan M. Fernández, J. Fraser Stoddart*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapter

92 Scopus citations

Abstract

A fundamental understanding of the thermodynamics and kinetics of mechanically interlocked molecules, such as [2]rotaxanes, will contribute to a more rational design of new molecular machines. This Chapter describes the influence of chemical modifications and the role of the physical environment on the ground state thermodynamics and the shuttling and switching kinetics of several tetrathiafulvalene- and 1,5-dioxynaphthalene-containing [2]rotaxanes. A comparison between the properties of these bistable rotaxanes and model host-guest complexes of the corresponding π-electron donating recognition units with the π-electron accepting cyclophane, cyclobis(paraquat-p- phenylene), has been made, resulting in useful guidelines for the design of new bistable rotaxanes with specific, desirable physical performances.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationMolecular Machines
EditorsRoss Kelly
Pages99-132
Number of pages34
DOIs
StatePublished - Oct 13 2005

Publication series

NameTopics in Current Chemistry
Volume262
ISSN (Print)0340-1022

Keywords

  • Kinetics
  • Molecular shuttles
  • Rotaxanes
  • Thermodynamics
  • Translational isomerism

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Chemistry(all)

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