A characteristic ribbon-like supramolecular structure and intermolecular D–A interactions in the crystals of triptycenequinones, triptycene-TCNQs and their clathrates as studied by X-ray investigations

A common ribbon-like structure was found in the crystals of triptycenequinones (TPQs), triptycene-TCNQs (TP-TCNQs) and their clathrates. The characteristic structure can be regarded as a supramolecular unit the formation of which is aided by weak intermolecular D–A interactions. This view is supported by the host–guest D–A interactions appeared in the crystals of the clathrates of 5,8-dimethyl-TPQ and 5,8-dimethoxy-TP-TCNQ. Intermolecular C–H⋯O hydrogen bonds seem to be present in TPQ derivatives.