Symmetry-Aligned Supramolecular Encapsulation of C60: [C60⊂(L)2], L=p-Benzylcalix[5]arene orp-Benzylhexahomooxacalix[3]arene

Abstract

C60-encapsulated species, [C60⊂(1)2]⋅8 toluene and [C60⊂(2)2], are obtained exclusively when p-benzylcalix[5]arene (1) or p-benzylhexahomooxacalix[3]arene (2) react with C60 or fullerite in toluene. The C5 or C3 symmetry axis, respectively, of each calixarene is aligned with the same symmetry element of C60 and highlights the importance of symmetry matching in the design of host molecules for fullerenes.