Enhanced small-molecule assembly through directional intramolecular forces

Directional intramolecular interactions play a critical role in the self-assembly of donor-or-acceptor molecules in solution. Amide functions on the periphery of the tricyclic core stabilize a C-3-symmetric monomer conformation by intramolecular hydrogen bonding and dipole-dipole interactions. The molecules are effective organogelators and show long-range ordering in the bulk.