Stimuli-Responsive Complexation Based on Twisted Cucurbit[14]uril and p-Diaminoazobenzene

Graphical We have reported a stimuli-responsive supramolecular assembly of twisted cucurbit[14]uril ( t Q[14]) and p -diaminoazobenzene (DAAB). Our research results revealed that the interaction between the DAAB and t Q[14], t Q[14] affords the complex t Q[14]-DAAB. The association and dissociation of the supramolecular assembly could be reversibly controlled by the thermal. Furthermore, the t Q[14]-DAAB complex also responded to selected anionic stimuli such as AcO − and F − , and exhibiting potential analysis application. The supramolecular assembly between twisted cucurbit[14]uril ( t Q[14]) and p -diaminoazobenzene (DAAB) has been successfully developed based on host-guest interactions. Interestingly, as the temperature increases, the assembly dissociates and recovers when the temperature decreases. This shows that the association and dissociation of the supramolecular assembly can be reversibly controlled by the temperature. In addition, the t Q[14]-DAAB complex also exhibits selective ultraviolet and colorimetric responses for AcO − and F − , the detection limits of the sensor for AcO − and F − are 5.17×10 −6 M and 2.31×10 −5 M, respectively. The t Q[14]-DAAB exhibits potential analysis applications.