A push-button molecular switch.
The preparation, characterization, and switching mechanism of a unique single-station mechanically switchable hetero[2]catenane are reported. The facile synthesis utilizing a "threading-followed-by-clipping" protocol features Cu(2+)-catalyzed Eglinton coupling as a mild and efficient route to the tetrathiafulvalene-based catenane in high yield. The resulting mechanically interlocked molecule operates as a perfect molecular switch, most readily described as a "push-button" switch, whereby two discrete and fully occupied translational states are toggled electrochemically at incredibly high rates. This mechanical switching was probed using a wide variety of experimental techniques as well as quantum-mechanical investigations. The fundamental distinctions between this single-station [2]catenane and other more traditional bi- and multistation molecular switches are significant.
Spruell
Jason M
JM
Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, 2145 Sheridan Road, Evanston, Illinois 60202, USA.
Paxton
Walter F
WF
Olsen
John-Carl
JC
Benítez
Diego
D
Tkatchouk
Ekaterina
E
Stern
Charlotte L
CL
Trabolsi
Ali
A
Friedman
Douglas C
DC
Goddard
William A
WA
Stoddart
J Fraser
JF