Au(i)-, Ag(i)-, and Pd(ii)-coordination-driven diverse self-assembly of an N-heterocyclic carbene-based amphiphile

Au(i)-, Ag(i)-, and Pd(ii)-coordination-driven diverse self-assembly of an N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC)-based amphiphile was demonstrated herein. The transition metals had significant effects over the whole system, setting the self-assembly direction of the NHC-based amphiphile. More specifically, Au(i)- and Ag(i)-coordination to the NHC-based amphiphile promoted the formation of spherical and hexagonal structures, while Pd(ii)-coordination promoted the formation of cylindrical and lamellar structures.

Automated summary

The coordination of Au(i)-, Ag(i)-, and Pd(ii) transition metals to an N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC)-based amphiphile drove diverse self-assembly processes, leading to the formation of spherical, hexagonal, cylindrical, and lamellar structures. The specific metal coordination determined the direction of self-assembly and the resulting morphology of the NHC-based amphiphile.