Controlling the Size and Morphology of Supramolecular Assemblies of Viologen–Resorcin[4]arene Cavitands

A novel class of self-assembling nanoparticles is formed with viologen-resorcin[4]arene cavitands; the association model is strongly controlled by their hydrophobicity. Interestingly, the cavitand assemblies are designed through click chemistry to form self-assembled noncovalently connected aggregates through counterion displacement. The iodide and benzoate ions are utilized as strongly polarizable counterions to induce cavitand self-assembly. The counterion-mediated decrease in hydrophilicity of the viologen-resorcin[4]arenes is the underlying trigger to induce particle formation. These particles can be used as nanocontainers and find their applications in delivery systems.