A novel inclusion complex form between Q[10] host and Q[5] guest stabilized by potassium ion coordination

A novel inclusion complex image was synthesized via a self-produced intermediate template route. The X-ray crystallography shows two potassium cations coordinated to each portal of Q[5] to form closed molecular capsule, in which a water molecule was encapsulated. Interestingly, the closed molecular capsule is trapped in the cavity of a bigger macrocycle Q[10] and the inclusion complex is stabilized by potassium ion coordination. The structure of the inclusion complex was further confirmed by 1H NMR spectra and X-ray photoelectron spectra (XPS). Possible formation process of the title complex was proposed based on the experiment results.