Photodimerization of hydrophobic guests within a water-soluble nanocapsule

Conducting reactions in environmentally benign conditions is one of the major objectives of “green chemistry.” In this context, developing ways to conduct reactions in water seems obvious. In this report, we present our results on photodimerization of select guest molecules placed within the rigid reaction cavity of a water-soluble cavitand, octa acid. The results presented herein highlight the value of a supramolecular approach in achieving selectivity in photoreactions and opening reaction pathways that are latent in solution chemistry.