New lacunar-type and pendant groups containing derivatives of β-unsubstituted dibenzotetraaza[14]annulenes—syntheses and crystal structures

Three new lacunar-type derivatives of β-unsubstituted dibenzotetraaza[14]annulene have been synthesized along with a range of their open-chain pendant group containing counterparts. The crystal structures of two representative products have been determined and the noncovalent interactions explored. A number of C–H⋯π and π⋯π interactions involving aliphatic chains and aromatic regions of the macrocycle have been evidenced. The relative ease and high yield of lacunization are suggested to be largely due to self-assembly processes, driven by favorable noncovalent interactions between reacting units.