Self-assembly of ML tetrahedral cages incorporating pendant P[double bond, length as m-dash]S and P[double bond, length as m-dash]Se functionalised ligands.

Herein, the synthesis of metal-organic tetrahedral cages featuring flexible thio- and selenophosphate-based ligands is described. The cages were prepared by sub-component self-assembly of A[double bond, length as m-dash]P(OC6H4NH2-4)3 (A = S, Se) or S[double bond, length as m-dash]P(SC6H4NH2-4)3, 2-pyridinecarboxaldehyde, and either Fe[BF4]2 or Co[BF4]2. Preliminary host-guest studies into the ability of the pendant P[double bond, length as m-dash]S and P[double bond, length as m-dash]Se groups to interact with suitable substrates will be discussed.