Two-dimensional hexagonal hydrogen-bonded network with triangle-like large cavities: hexakis(4-carboxyphenyl)benzene

Hexakis(4-carboxyphenyl)benzene (1) as a radially functionalized hexagonal host was synthesized by the Co-catalyzed cyclotrimerization of diarylacetylene. When recrystallized from MeOH, host 1 self-assembles into a two-dimensional hexagonal hydrogen-bonded network having triangle-like large cavities (one side of ca. 15.2 إ), each of which is filled with guest molecules without interpenetration of the crystal lattice.