Probability model guides synthesis of interwoven catenane structure

A simple mathematical model has helped chemists selectively synthesise a novel interwoven catenane structure. Researchers say models such as these may help improve chemists’ understanding of how to rationally design catenanes with more intricate structures.

In recent years, chemists have been trying to increase the complexity of catenanes – structures consisting of interlocked rings. Using molecular cages with multiple cavities as building blocks offers one way to do this, as these monomers can interweave in various ways. However, examples of these types of interlocked structures are currently rare.