Controllable Synthesis of Dodecamethylcucurbit[6]uril and Its Application in Separating Phenylenediamine Isomers

By using the method of building blocks, the dodecamethycucurbit[6]uril Me12Q[6] was synthesized and its structure was characterized by multiple techniques. The binding interactions between Me12Q[6] and phenylenediamine (PDA) isomers were also investigated both in the solid state and in aqueous solution. Importantly, the Me12Q[6]/[ZnCl4]2–-based supramolecular framework can selectively accommodate o-PDA rather than its isomers. The present study suggests the practical application of Me12Q[6] in separating PDA isomers and the potential utility of Me12Q[6] in isolating other organic molecules.