Computer simulations as an effective way to distinguish supramolecular nanostructure in cyclic and phenyl alcohols

Molecular dynamics simulations supported by x-ray-diffraction experimental data were utilized to demonstrate how replacing the cyclic ring with the phenyl one in molecules of alcohols significantly differentiates their nanostructure by reducing the number of H-bonded clusters. Besides, molecules in the phenyl alcohols associate themselves in clusters via phenyl ring organization which likely is the result of OH & BULL; & BULL; & BULL; & pi; and & pi; & BULL; & BULL; & BULL; & pi; interactions. Thus, at room temperature, the supramolecular structure of phenyl alcohols is more heterogeneous and governed by the formation of various clusters arising due to three types of interactions, while in cyclic alcohols, the H bonding controls the association of molecules. We believe that our methodology could be applied to better understand the fundamental process of association via H bonding and the competitive aggregation caused by phenyl rings.

Automated summary

Molecular dynamics simulations with x-ray diffraction experiments showed that replacing the cyclic ring with a phenyl ring in alcohols leads to a significant difference in their nanostructure by reducing the number of H-bonded clusters. Phenyl alcohols form clusters through phenyl ring organization, likely due to OH•••π and π•••π interactions. Compared to cyclic alcohols, the supramolecular structure of phenyl alcohols is more heterogeneous and governed by the formation of various clusters due to different interactions. This research provides insights into the association process through H bonding and competitive aggregation caused by phenyl rings.