The Host Guest Co-Crystal Approach to Supramolecular Structure

A host-guest co-crystal approach to supramolecular structure has been developed. Molecular functionalities have been identified that will self assemble via hydrogen bonds to give one dimensional α-networks with defined intermolecular distances. Host molecules based on these functionalites can be co-crystallized with guest molecules, the characteristic distance defined by the host is thus imposed on the guest. Using this strategy, functional supramolecular solids can be prepared. One molecule, the host determines the structure, while a second molecule, the guest, provides the function.