Molecular Links and Knots from Naphthalenediimide: A Balance of Weak Interactions.

Owing to its unique structural, electronic, spectroscopic, and redox properties, naphthalenediimide (NDI) is a versatile building block for the construction of a wide variety of supramolecular assemblies with diverse structures, properties, and functions. In this Minireview, the synthesis of topologically nontrivial molecular links and knots based on naphthalenediimide-derived building blocks will be discussed. In particular, the supramolecular forces that contribute to the formation of these molecular links and knots and their interactions will be discussed.