WHAT ARE CATANENES?

Catanenes are typically two cyclic molecules that are "linked" together, one going through the other.

This is similar to the way a metal puzzle might be arranged.

(above) A diagram of a catenane.
Ref 2a

Importantly, although they are linked together, there are very few chemical bonds inbetween the two molecules. Also, no matter how muich the two rings are twisted or stretched, they will never loosen unless one ring breaks. This is known as a "mechanical bond".

(above) A metal puzzle, similar
in style to a catenane
Ref 2b

Although not straightfoward to make, the special spatial arrangement of the molecule means they have special properties that are useful for nanotechnology. They can also form polycatanenes, which are long chains of these molecules joined together like paper decorations.

The synthesis of theses molecules is done in one of two ways: either breaking up a long chained molecule with a twist in it, or using a "template" molecule to temporarily attach the two molecules together.

click here to see a 3D image of a catenane (NOTE: external site)

Nanotechnology

...using catenanes, rotaxanes and more

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WHAT ARE CATANENES?

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