Slow Shuttling in an Amphiphilic Bistable [2]Rotaxane Incorporating a Tetrathiafulvalene Unit

Abstract

Separation of the two translational isomers by preparative thin-layer chromatography (see picture) and a kinetic study of their interconversion are possible when a central barrier is inserted between two stations on the rod section in the dumbbell component of a [2]rotaxane. This switchable [2]rotaxane incorporates a monopyrrolotetrathiafulvalene unit and a 1,5-dioxynaphthalene ring system within its rod section and the tetracationic cyclobis(paraquat-p-phenylene) as its ring component.