Solvent-controlled self-assembly of tetrapodal [4 + 4] phosphate organic molecular cage

Abstract

Two flexible subcomponents, namely tris(4-formylphenyl)phosphate and tris(2-aminoethyl)amine, are assembled into a tetrapodal [4 + 4] cage depending on the solvent effect. Single-crystal structure analysis reveals that the caivity is surrounded by four phosphate uints. Good selectivity of CO2 adsorption over CH4 is demonstrated by the gas adsorption experiment.