Cavity-directed, highly stereoselective [2+2] photodimerization of olefins within self-assembled coordination cages

Abstract

Molecular flasks of self-assembled M6L4 nanocages promote the [2+2] photodimerization of olefins in a surprisingly efficient fashion. Thus, the dimerization of acenaphthylenes and naphthoquinones quantitatively proceeded in the cavity with remarkable rate acceleration and perfect regio- and stereo-control (> 98%, see scheme).