Stepwise Dissipative Control of Multimodal Motion in a Silver(I) Catenate.

Area of Science:

• Supramolecular Chemistry
• Materials Science
• Chemical Engineering

Background:

• Controlling molecular motion is crucial for developing advanced functional materials.
• Designing multicomponent systems capable of distinct, stepwise movements presents a significant challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate stepwise dissipative control over distinct molecular motions (shuttling and sliding) within a single device.
• To investigate the autonomous behavior and resilience of such molecular systems.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a multicomponent device comprising [2]rotaxane 1 and deck 2.
• Employed a chemical fuel (AgBF4/PhCH2Br+NEt3) to initiate dissipative processes.
• Characterized transient catenate formation and subsequent transformations using spectroscopic and structural analysis.

Main Results:

• Generated a transient catenate ([Ag(1)]+·[Ag3(2)]3+) exhibiting multimodal motion.
• Achieved stepwise transformation into a secondary transient device ((1)·[Ag3(2)]3+) with only sliding motion.
• Demonstrated the process's resilience and robustness through two interference-free dissipative cycles.

Conclusions:

• Stepwise dissipative control of distinct molecular motions is achievable in a single multicomponent device.
• The demonstrated system exhibits autonomous return and robust performance over multiple cycles.
• This work provides a foundation for designing complex molecular machines with tailored dynamic behaviors.