Preparation, characterization and properties of inclusion complexes of β-ionone with acyclic cucurbit[n]urils

•Inclusion complexes of acyclic cucurbit[n]urils with β-ionone were prepared.•The complexation behaviors and binding affinity were investigated.•The possible inclusion modes were proposed by 2D-ROESY and molecular docking.•The heat-controlled release of β-ionone from inclusion complex were studied. The thermal stability of β-ionone was enhanced in this work by preparing two inclusion compounds using acyclic cucurbit[n]urils (M1 and M2). The binding behavior of β- ionone was examined using XRD, 1H NMR, and FT-IR, and it was confirmed that host-guest inclusion compounds were successfully created. By the fluorescence titration, binding constant was measured the results shows that inclusion compound stoichiometric ratio was 1:1. In addition, controlled release and thermogravimetric studies demonstrate that the inclusion compound exhibits exceptional thermal stability. This research offers a fresh concept and approach for creating perfumes in the β- ionone series. [Display omitted]