Supramolecular assemblies of globular main group cage species

A comprehensive survey of the supramolecular chemistry of main group cage s pecies covers their host-guest chemistry, molecular recognition, and inclus ion/intercalation compounds. A major part of the review deals with carboran es, o-, m-, p-B2C10H12, which show a remarkable ability to self assemble vi a hydrogen bonds involving the C-H groups, bifurcated hydrogen bonds (C-H . ..(O)(2)) and C-H ...pi interactions. Group 15/16 cage molecules form host- guest supermolecules and extended structures with rigid saddle shape metal macrocycles. Insight into future prospects in this field is presented. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science S.A. All rights reserved.