Enhancement of catalytic reactivity of zinc(II) complex by a cyclotriveratrylene-capped structure

Cyclotriveratrylene (CTV)-capped zinc(II) complex is a covalent molecular capsule that is constructed from a CTV host unit, a tris(2-aminoethylamine) (tren) ligand, and three rigid phenyl spacers. A direct comparison between CTV-capped zinc(II) complex and CTV-uncapped zinc(II) complex based on X-ray crystal structures and the hydrolysis of various activated alkyl carbonates revealed that the 23-membered cap of the complex enhanced its catalytic reactivity.A cyclotriveratrylene-capped structure enhances the catalytic reactivity of zinc complex.

Cyclotriveratrylene (CTV)-capped zinc(II) complex is a covalent molecular capsule that is constructed from a CTV host unit, a tris(2-aminoethylamine) (tren) ligand, and three rigid phenyl spacers. A direct comparison between CTV-capped zinc(II) complex and CTV-uncapped zinc(II) complex based on X-ray crystal structures and the hydrolysis of various activated alkyl carbonates revealed that the 23-membered cap of the complex enhanced its catalytic reactivity.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► X-ray crystal structures revealed the novel zinc complex.
► We examined the catalytic reactivity of various zinc complexes.
► A CTV-capped structure enhanced the catalytic reactivity of hydrolysis.