Preprint

PUBDB-2025-05596

http://join2-wiki.gsi.de/foswiki/pub/Main/Artwork/join2_logo100x88.png Salt Complexation Drives Liquid Crystalline Self-Assembly in Crown Ether–Amino Acid Hybrids

Raab, A. R. (Corresponding author)Extern* ; Griesser, T. R. ; Rück, D. ; Li, Z.DESY* ; Zens, A. ; Bruckner, J. R. (Corresponding author) ; Huber, P.Extern*DESY* ; Schönhals, A. ; Szymoniak, P. ; Laschat, S.

2025

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Please use a persistent id in citations: doi:10.26434/chemrxiv-2025-25sz1  doi:10.3204/PUBDB-2025-05596

Abstract: Crown ether–amino acid hybrids represent a promising class of amphiphilic molecules combining ion recognition with self-assembly capabilities. Despite extensive studies on their binding properties, the influence of inorganic salt complexation on their liquid crystalline behaviour remains underexplored. Here we synthesized amphiphilic [18]-crown-6 derivatives of L-dihydroxyphenylalanine and tetrahydroisoquinoline analogues, systematically investigating the effects of alkyl chain length and salt type on mesophase formation. Complexation with various salts induced liquid crystalline phases, transitioning from smectic A to columnar hexagonal structures as anion size and alkyl chain length increased. Structural analyses and electron density mapping revealed assembly into charged superdiscs forming columnar stacks with tunable ion channels. Broadband dielectric spectroscopy highlighted differences in molecular mobility and conductivity linked to molecular design. These findings establish salt complexation as a key strategy to control self-assembly and ion transport in crown ether–amino acid hybrids, advancing their potential in responsive soft materials and ion-conductive applications

Note: (DFG grant # LA 907/21-1; HU 850/13-1; SCHO 470/26-1) and DFG (INST 41/897-1 FUGG for 700 MHz NMR, INST 41/1136-1 FUGG for Orbitrap LC-MS),

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Contributing Institute(s):

1. CIMMS-RA Center for integr. Multiscale M (CIMMS)

Research Program(s):

1. 632 - Materials – Quantum, Complex and Functional Materials (POF4-632) (POF4-632)

Experiment(s):

1. No specific instrument

Appears in the scientific report 2025

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