Integrative self-sorting: construction of a cascade-stoppered hetero[3]rotaxane

In this Communication, a competing self-sorting system containing benzo-21-crown-7, dibenzo-24-crown-8 and two secondary ammonium salts is constructed, which is then modified to achieve a hetero3]pseudorotaxane with a specific sequence of wheels. With these two systems, we successfully demonstrate the concept of integrative self-sorting, and their relation. Furthermore, based on this self-sorting scheme, a hetero3]rotaxane with an efficient stopper cascade has been synthesized.