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Updated: May 19, 2026

Synthesis of a Water-soluble Metal–Organic Complex Array
Published on: October 8, 2016
Metals, macrocycles and molecular assemblies - macrocyclic complexes in metallo-supramolecular chemistry
Leonard F Lindoy1, Ki-Min Park, Shim Sung Lee
1School of Chemistry, The University of Sydney, F11, NSW 2006, Australia. len.lindoy@sydney.edu.au
Macrocyclic complexes offer enhanced stability and versatility as building blocks in supramolecular chemistry. These cyclic ligands are crucial for creating diverse discrete and polymeric systems with tailored properties.
Area of Science:
- Supramolecular Chemistry
- Coordination Chemistry
Background:
- Macrocyclic complexes are increasingly recognized for their unique properties.
- Cyclic ligands impart enhanced stability and structural control to assemblies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the application of macrocyclic complexes as building blocks in supramolecular systems.
- To highlight the versatility of macrocyclic ligand complexes in diverse architectures.
Main Methods:
- Discussion of properties imparted by cyclic ligands.
- Exemplification of macrocyclic complexes in various supramolecular structures.
Main Results:
- Macrocyclic complexes provide enhanced stability to supramolecular assemblies.
- Demonstrated versatility in controlling aggregation, scaffold formation, and interlocked structures.
- Role in exo-coordination, columnar stacks, and coordination polymers.
Conclusions:
- Macrocyclic complexes are versatile components for constructing advanced supramolecular systems.
- Their unique properties enable precise control over structure and function in discrete and polymeric materials.
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