Chloride-Anion-Templated Synthesis of a Strapped-Porphyrin-Containing Catenane Host System

The synthesis, structure and anion‐recognition properties of a new strapped‐porphyrin‐containing [2]catenane anion host system are described. The assembly of the catenane is directed by discrete chloride anion templation acting in synergy with secondary aromatic donor–acceptor and coordinative pyridine–zinc interactions. The [2]catenane incorporates a three‐dimensional, hydrogen‐bond‐donating anion‐binding pocket; solid‐state structural analysis of the catenane⋅chloride complex reveals that the chloride anion is encapsulated within the catenane’s interlocked binding cavity through six convergent CH⋅⋅⋅⋅Cl and NH⋅⋅⋅Cl hydrogen‐bonding interactions and solution‐phase 1H NMR titration experiments demonstrate that this complementary hydrogen‐bonding arrangement facilitates the selective recognition of chloride over larger halide anions in DMSO solution. Back on the chain gang: A new strapped‐porphyrin‐containing [2]catenane anion host system is assembled by using chloride‐anion templation in conjunction with pyridine–zinc ligation and aromatic donor–acceptor interactions.