Metallo-Based Cyclophanes and [2]Catenanes

The creation of systems that are capable of performing molecular-scale operations is currently under extensive investigation, particularly in the emerging field of nanotechnology. Towards this end, we have been actively involved in the construction and study of the properties of metallo-based assemblies based on electron-deficient cyclophanes and donor-acceptor [2]catenanes. Metallic moieties, such as [Ru(bipy)₂ (L)]⁶⁺ and [Os(bipy)₂(L)]⁶⁺, where bipy = 2,2′-bipyridyl and L= tetracationic cyclophane ligand, form an integral part of the molecular structures of these assemblies and in these specific cases create photoactive complexes. The photoinduced electron transfer reactions which occur within these molecules have been extensively studied, especially in relation to the corresponding processes found in natural photosynthetic reaction centres. Here, we present a short review on relevant aspects of this work as well as the potential use of metal-based cyclophanes as binders for aromatics.