Host–Guest Conversion: Transformation of Diiodomethane within 1D-Ensemble Suprachannels into Triiodide–Iodine Channel via Photoreaction

Self-assembly of ZnBr2 with 2,7-bis(isonicotinoyloxy)naphthalene (L) yields one-dimensional (1D) zigzag chains of [ZnBr2L] composition. This 1D chain ensemble forms unique suprachannels of 4.0 × 4.2 A2 size via weak C–H···π and π···π interactions. A 350 nm ultraviolet irradiation affects host–guest conversion. Diiodomethane molecules within the suprachannel structure of CHCl3·CH2I2@[ZnBr2L] were transformed into an unprecedented triiodide–iodine channel skeleton, HL+@[I3·I2]−. Specifically, two clear, quasi-reversible redox peaks were observed at +0.33 and +0.70 V versus Ag/AgCl in the anodic scan and at +0.19 and +0.62 V in the cathodic scan in acetonitrile for HL+@[I3·I2]−.