The synthesis and characterization of a novel class of pillar[4]arene[1]thioarenes (P[4]A[1]SMe) are reported. An oxidation–thionation strategy was used to replace a single dialkoxybenzene panel in the parent pillar[5]arene. 1H NMR spectroscopic titration experiments, supported by density functional theory computational studies, revealed that P[4]A[1]SMe show starkly modulated host–guest binding properties for electron-deficient aliphatic guests.
Key words
sulfurization - Lawesson’s reagent - pillar[4]arene[1]thioquinone - pillar[4]arene[1]thioarenes - host–guest complex - supramolecular chemistry