Self-assembly formation of mechanically interlocked [2]- and [3] catenanes using lanthanide ion [Eu(III)] templation and ring closing metathesis reactions

The formation of interlocked lanthanide-based catenanes using Eu(III)-directed synthesis is described (catenation being achieved via a ring-closing metathesis reaction); the self-assembly formation of the supramolecular structures was analysed by HRMS, NMR and luminescent spectroscopies.