Computer‐Aided Design of a Sulfate‐Encapsulating Receptor

Abstract

Custom built: A promising new approach towards more efficient self-assembled cage receptors through computer-aided design is demonstrated. The resulting M(4)L(6) tetrahedral cage, internally functionalized with accurately positioned urea hydrogen-bonding groups (see structure; yellow: predicted, blue: experimental, space-filling: SO(4)(2-)), proved to be a remarkably strong sulfate receptor in water.