Anion-receptor molecules: Macrocyclic and macrobicyclic effects on anion binding by polyammonium receptor molecules

The stability constants for anion binding by the acyclic hexaamine 1 , its macrocyclic analogue 2 , and the bicyclic compound 3 in their protonated forms are reported. Compound 3 forms stable and selective complexes with halide ions, the stability sequence being I^? > Br^? > Cl^?. Compound 2 forms more stable complexes with sulfate, oxalate, and malonate dianions than its acyclic analogue 1 and shows a better selectivity pattern. Compound 3 forms stronger complexes with oxalate^2? than 2 and shows a remarkably high binding selectivity between oxalate^2? and malonate^2?. The comparison of the ability of 1–3 to complex anions demonstrates the macrocyclic and macrobicyclic effects on anion binding stability and selectivity.