“Total Synthesis” Supramolecular Style: Design and Hydrogen-Bond-Directed Assembly of Ternary Supermolecules

Getting the right balance between intermolecular interactions is crucial for the synthesis of supermolecules in a preconceived manner. The three-component supermolecule in the ternary cocrystal of 3,5-dinitrobenzoic acid, isonicotinamide, and 4-(dimethylamino)benzoic acid (1:1:1) assembles through a "primary" (between the stronger acid and pyridine) and a "secondary" hydrogen-bonding interaction (between the weaker acid and amide).