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Updated: May 18, 2026

Reliable Mechanochemistry: Protocols for Reproducible Outcomes of Neat and Liquid Assisted Ball-mill Grinding Experiments
Published on: January 23, 2018
Mechanostereochemistry and the mechanical bond.
Gokhan Barin1, Ross S Forgan, J Fraser Stoddart
1Department of Chemistry, Center for the Chemistry of Integrated Systems , Northwestern University , 2145 Sheridan Road, Evanston, IL 60208-3133, USA.
Mechanostereochemistry, the study of mechanically interlocked molecules (MIMs), has advanced from inefficient methods to template-directed syntheses. This enables the creation of complex molecular machines and functional systems for diverse applications.
Area of Science:
- Chemistry
- Supramolecular Chemistry
- Materials Science
Background:
- Mechanically interlocked molecules (MIMs) are compounds with components linked by mechanical bonds.
- The field of mechanostereochemistry studies MIMs, including their synthesis, properties, and functions.
- Early MIM synthesis relied on inefficient statistical methods.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review template-directed synthetic methods for MIMs.
- To highlight the synthesis of complex molecular knots and links.
- To discuss the integration of bistable MIMs into devices and materials.
Main Methods:
- Template-directed synthesis utilizing molecular recognition and self-assembly.
- Design and construction of artificial molecular switches and machines.
- Incorporation of MIMs into surfaces, nanoparticles, and solid-state materials.
Main Results:
- Shift from statistical to efficient template-directed protocols for MIM synthesis.
- Successful synthesis of topologically complex molecular knots and links.
- Development of integrated functional systems using MIMs.
Conclusions:
- Template-directed synthesis is key to advancing mechanostereochemistry.
- MIMs are crucial for developing molecular machines and functional materials.
- Mechanostereochemistry offers potential for applications in nanotechnology and materials science.
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