Influence of the Guest on the Packing of Dimeric β-Cyclodextrin Complexes

Abstract

Packing pattern of host:guest complexes of beta-cyclodextrin (beta CD) are discussed In most of beta CD inclusion complexes two beta CD molecules self-assemble and form a dimer which encloses one or more molecules of guest. The whole is a supermolecule held together by intermolecular non-bonding interactions. The dimer has the shape of se cylinder whose dimensions and external surface remain unchanged irrespective of the guest. The latter influences only the top and bottom faces of the cylinder where some parts of it are exposed As a result of this influence four packing modes are encountered The study of the molecular packing of the beta CD complexes in conjunction with the nature of the guest is a means toward a better understanding of the association of the supermolecular units that will lead to the design of crystal structures with specific characteristics.