Heterolytic Activation of H₂ Using a Mechanically Interlocked Molecule as a Frustrated Lewis Base

Abstract

Frustrating: A sterically unencumbered aniline base (see picture, left) can be transformed into a bulky Lewis base by converting it into a [2]rotaxane (right). This Lewis base donor, which is surrounded by a protective macrocyclic ring, exhibits the reactivity of a frustrated Lewis pair (e.g. activation of H2(g)) without the need for direct covalent modification to increase its bulk. Detailed facts of importance to specialist readers are published as ”Supporting Information”. Such documents are peer-reviewed, but not copy-edited or typeset. They are made available as submitted by the authors. Please note: The publisher is not responsible for the content or functionality of any supporting information supplied by the authors. Any queries (other than missing content) should be directed to the corresponding author for the article.