Supramolecular Matter Through Crystal Engineering: Covalent Bond Formation to Postsynthetic Modification

Area of Science:

• Organic Chemistry
• Supramolecular Chemistry
• Solid-State Chemistry

Background:

• Crystalline materials are often viewed as static.
• Organic synthesis typically occurs in solution.
• Limitations exist for transformations in solution.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the development of supramolecular chemistry for directing organic synthesis in the solid state.
• To highlight the potential for controlled covalent bond formations within crystals.
• To explore the use of postsynthetic modifications to expand solid-state reactivity.

Main Methods:

• Focus on supramolecular strategies for solid-state reactions.
• Discussion of directing C-C bond formations in crystals.
• Analysis of postsynthetic modifications for functional scope expansion.

Main Results:

• Supramolecular chemistry transforms crystals into dynamic reaction environments.
• Reliable C-C bond formations are achieved in the solid state.
• Solid-state transformations enable reactions difficult or impossible in solution.
• Postsynthetic modifications broaden the utility of solid-state reactivity.

Conclusions:

• Organic crystals can be utilized as "molecular flasks" through supramolecular control.
• Supramolecular chemistry offers a powerful platform for novel organic synthesis in the solid state.
• This approach expands the concept of supramolecular matter with dynamic reactivity.