Modulation of SHG responses via supramolecular association/dissociation between two complementary cryptands

Two sets of complementary cryptands are investigated for supramolecular nitro–amino H-bonding interactions in solutions. The D-π-A cryptand and the unsubstituted cryptand forms 1:1 H-bonded structure. Its second harmonic generation capabilities in solution are explored by HRS titration experiments. Supramolecular assembly leads to spontaneous increase of the SHG intensity, which undergoes steady decrease on addition of MeOH due to the breakdown of the H-bonded structure. Thus, NLO responses can be reversibly modulated by applying such supramolecular principles.