Facet-Selective 2D Self-Assembly of TiO2 Nanoleaves via Supramolecular Interactions

Using catechol-group-terminated Zn(II)-porphyrin (ZnP) to functionalize the single-crystalline TiO2 nanoleaves and coordinate ZnP with trans-2,2'-ethylene 4, 4'-bipyridyl (1), we demonstrate the self-assembly of TiO2 nanoleaves based on a supramolecular interaction. Compound 1 cross-links the adjacent TiO2 nanoleaves along the [101] face, results in a facet-selective, self-assembled, 2D stacking structure. This observation suggests that supramolecular interactions offer a promising route to control anisotropic nanomaterials into designed geometry.