Rational design and gas-phase characterization of molecular capsules by self-assembly of a symmetric hexasubstituted benzene with seven-membered lactams

A novel very simple C-3-symmetric lactam has been rationally designed to self-assemble as dimers or larger platonic solid capsules. Its core flat benzene ring bears three seven-membered lactams, resulting I in tripod molecules that aggregate into robust tetrameric capsules. The self-assembly process was templated by tetraethylammonium cations and proven to be reversible by ESI spectroscopy in various solvents.