Backer Lecture 2010

The use of just two types of building blocks, linear and angular, in conjunction with symmetry considerations allows the rational design of a wide range of metallocyclic polygons and polyhedra via the coordination motif. A large variety of 2D supramolecular polygons has been self-assembled: triangles, rectangles, squares, and hexagons. Also 3D supramolecuar polyhedra have been prepared: truncated tetrahedra, triginal prisms, cubooctahedra and dodecahedra. These rigid supramolecular scaffolds have been functionalized with different electroactive, host-guest, dendritic and hydrophobic/hydrophilic moieties. The properties of these species have been examined. Additionally, we have begun to explore the self-assembly of 2D polygons and 3D polyhedra on a variety of surfaces with the aim of developing their potential to be used in device settings.