Time-dependent solid-state molecular motion and colour tuning of host-guest systems by organic solvents

Yu-Dong Yang,Haoke Zhang,Zhi-Hao Lu,Ben Zhong Tang,Jonathan L Sessler,Xiaofan Ji,Han-Yuan Gong,Jian Yang,Chao Gao

doi:10.1038/s41467-019-13844-5

Abstract

Host-guest complex solid state molecular motion is a critical but underexplored phenomenon. In principle, it can be used to control molecular machines that function in the solid state. Here we describe a solid state system that operates on the basis of complexation between an all-hydrocarbon macrocycle, D4d-CDMB-8, and perylene. Molecular motion in this solid state machine is induced by exposure to organic solvents or grinding and gives rise to different co-crystalline, mixed crystalline, or amorphous forms. Distinct time-dependent emissive responses are seen for different organic solvents as their respective vapours or when the solid forms are subject to grinding. This temporal feature allows the present D4d-CDMB-8⊃perylene-based system to be used as a time-dependent, colour-based 4th dimension response element in pattern-based information codes. This work highlights how dynamic control over solid-state host-guest molecular motion may be used to induce a tuneable temporal response and provide materials with information storage capability.

Highlights

Host-guest complex solid state molecular motion is a critical but underexplored phenomenon
CDMB-8 is an all-hydrocarbon macrocycle that exists in the form of two isomers, which are not interconverted[46]
We found that one isomer, namely D4d-CDMB-8, could act as a good receptor for curved aromatic molecules (e.g., C60 and C70) both in solution and the solid state[46]

Summary

Introduction

Host-guest complex solid state molecular motion is a critical but underexplored phenomenon. Motion-induced changes in the emissive features of solid materials been observed To the extent such effects are demonstrated it could lead to an ostensibly new type of molecular machine where solvents provide the fuel to drive the system and motion is reflected in easy-to-discern changes in the solid-state properties. In the limit, such machines could provide dynamic constructs that allow information to be stored, manipulated, and read out in an input-specific, time-dependent manner. The time-dependent nature of the transformations, as well as its origins in the choice of solvent and solid-state forms, has allowed the D4d-CDMB-8 and Py system to be elaborated to produce a set of 4D codes wherein time-dependent changes provide one information coding dimension and colours and patterns the other three (Fig. 1b)

Methods

Results

Conclusion