Chapter 4. Rotaxanes and Polyrotaxanes

Abstract

In this chapter, the preparation of cucurbituril-based pseudorotaxanes, rotaxanes and polyrotaxanes is illustrated with selected examples. This includes the notions of self-sorting, which enables the setup of homo- and hetero(pseudo)rotaxanes. The implications of thermodynamic and kinetic control are briefly showcased as well. In the main part, these assemblies are discussed in the context of stimuli-responsive systems, whose supramolecular chemistry and functionality can be controlled by using chemical inputs (pH, ions), redox signals or light. In the final part, some applications, such as drug delivery or molecular information processing, are highlighted.