A [2]rotaxane built around a multi-responsive bis-acridinium macrocycle has been synthesized. Structural investigation has confirmed the interlocked nature of the molecule, and MD simulations illuminated its conformational dynamics with atomic resolution. Both halochromic and redox-switching properties were explored to shed light on the mechanical response and electronic changes that occur in the bis-acridinium [2]rotaxane. The topology of the rotaxane led to different mechanical behaviors upon addition of hydroxide ions or reduction that were easily detected by UV/Vis spectroscopy and electrochemistry.
Keywords: acridinium; dual-readout; orthogonal stimuli; rotaxanes; supramolecular chemistry.
© 2022 The Authors. Chemistry - A European Journal published by Wiley-VCH GmbH.