Core-shell metal-macrocycle framework (MMF): spatially selective dye inclusion through core-to-shell anisotropic transport along crystalline 1D-channels connected by epitaxial growth

Designing unique core-shell porous crystals is key to the development of anisotropically functionalised materials. Herein we report the facile preparation of a core-shell metal-macrocycle framework (MMF) containing continuous 1D-channels via an epitaxial growth procedure. Methyl orange loaded in the core was found to be anisotropically transported to the shell along the heterogeneously hybridised 1D-channels.