A Three-dimensional Dynamic Supramolecular “Sticky Fingers” Organic Framework

Abstract

Engineering high recognition host-guest materials is a burgeoning area in basic and applied research. The challenge of exploring novel porous materials with advanced functionalities with the possibility of being largely scalable, prompted us to develop dynamic crystalline structures promoted by soft interactions. Herein, we demonstrate the first example of a pure molecular dynamic crystalline framework held together by means of weak van der Waals interactions. The presented organic fullerene-based material exhibits a non-porous dynamic crystalline structure capable of undergoing single-crystal to single-crystal reactions. Exposure to hydrazine vapors induce structural and chemical changes that evince the toposelective hydrogenation of alternating rings on the surface of the [60]fullerene. Control experiments confirm that the same reaction does not occur when performed in solution. This easily to detect change in the macroscopic properties paves the way for the real application of these materials.