Synthesis and characterization of chiral catenanes based on rigid calix[4]arene

A new class of chiral calix[4]arene-based [2]catenanes was synthesized in excellent yields of 51–80%. They exhibit unique dynamic properties according to variable temperature NMR experiments. The enantiomeric pure (+)-catenane was prepared in 66% yield starting from (−)-calix[4]arene.