Halogen Bonding in Solution: Anion Recognition, Templated Self‐Assembly, and Organocatalysis

The halogen bond is a supramolecular interaction between a Lewis‐acidic region of a covalently bound halogen and a Lewis base. It has been studied widely in silico and experimentally in the solid state; however, solution‐phase applications have attracted enormous interest in the last few years. This Minireview highlights selected recent developments in halogen bond interactions in solution, with a focus on the use of receptors based on halogen bonds in anion recognition and sensing, anion‐templated self‐assembly, as well as in organocatalysis. Giving direction: The utilization of highly directional halogen bonds for anion coordination and supramolecular chemistry has become increasingly apparent. In particular, their application for selective anion interactions in solution has attracted enormous interest. This Minireview focuses on fundamental advances in receptors based on halogen bonds in the area of anion recognition and sensing, anion‐templated self‐assembly, as well as organocatalysis.