Simultaneous self-assembly of a [2]catenane, a trefoil knot, and a Solomon link from a simple pair of ligands

Abstract

A topological triptych: Three molecular links, a [2]catenane, a trefoil knot, and a Solomon link, were obtained in one pot through the self-assembly of two simple ligands in the presence of Zn(II). The approach relied on dynamic covalent chemistry and metal templation.

Keywords: Solomon link; catenanes; dynamic covalent chemistry; metal templation; trefoil knot.