Highly efficient template‐based preparation of shape‐persistent macrocyclics

The synthesis of shape‐persistent macrocycles via oxidative dimerization or trimerization of rigid bisacetylenes (via Glaser coupling) is described. To enhance the yield of the desired target structures, the precursors are temporarily covalently bound to a template resulting in an intramolecular coupling instead of an intermolecular coupling. As a result, product yields up to over 90 % are observed.