A dynamic chemical clip in supramolecular framework for sorting alkylaromatic isomers using thermodynamic and kinetic preferences

Adsorptive chemical separation is at the forefront of future technologies, for use in chemical and petrochemical industries. In this process, a porous adsorbent selectively allows a single component from a mixture of three or more chemical components to be adsorbed or permeate. To separate the unsorted chemicals, a different adsorbent is needed. A unique adsorbent which can recognize and separate each of the chemicals from a mixture of three or more components is the necessity for the next generation porous materials. In this regard, we demonstrate a "dynamic chemical clip" in a supramolecular framework capable of thermodynamic and kinetics-based chemical separation. The dynamic space, featuring a strong preference for aromatic guests through π-π and C-H⋅⋅⋅π interactions and adaptability, can recognize the individual chemical isomers from mixtures and separate those based on thermodynamic and kinetic factors. The liquid-phase selectivity and separation of the aromatic isomers are possible by the adaptability of the "chemical clip" and here we elucidate the prime factors in a combinatorial approach involving crystallographic evidence and detailed computational studies.