A supramolecular assembly of methyl-substituted cucurbit[5]uril and its potential applications in selective absorption

A supramolecular assembly of a methyl-substituted cucurbit[5]uril (SPMeQ[5]) derived from 3-alpha-methyl-glycoluril is formed in the presence of the organic structure-directing agent, hydroquinone (Hyq). The structure-directing effect of Hyq is not only useful in the construction of novel supramolecular assemblies based on cucurbit[n]uril (Q[n]) and organic molecules but it could also enable the preparation of Q[n]-based porous materials for use in molecular sieves, and sensors, used in absorption and separation.