High-Yield Formation of Giant Bis(bicyclic) and Crypt-tris(bicyclic) Molecules under Normal Reaction Conditions

We report the unexpected result of the reaction of 1, 3-bis[(9-anthrylmethoxy)methyl]benzene (1a) or 1,3, 5-tris[(9-anthrylmethoxy)methyl]benzene (1b) with tris(2-maleimidoethyl)amine (2) in homogeneous solution leading to giant bis(bicyclic) and crypt-tris(bicyclic) molecules. The anticipated, intractable solids are obtained in a condensed state reaction using an oscillating mill.