Suprachannels via a Molecular Array of 2D Networks: Solvent Effects, Anion Exchange, and Physicochemical Properties of Silver(I) Complexes Bearing N,N′,N"-Tris(2-pyridinylethyl)-1,3,5-benzenetricarboxamide

The solvent effects on suprachannel formation via a molecular array of 2D networks were studied. The basic structure of the [Ag3L2](X)(3) (X- = NO2-, NO3-) 2D network consists of hexagonal (Ag6L6) motifs formed via self-assembly of Ag(I) with C-3-tridentate N-donors. The 2D networks are arranged in an eclipsed mode in aqueous solution, thus forming suprachannels (5.2 X 7.3 angstrom(2), 6.2 X 7.7 angstrom(2)) of [Ag3L2(H2O)(2)](X)(3), whereas they are arranged in a staggered abab... mode in nonaqueous solution, thus forming semi-suprachannels (3.1 X 5.1 angstrom(2)) of [Ag-3(NO3)(2)L-2](NO3). The suprachannel structure of [Ag3L2(H2O)(2)](NO3)(3) is soluble in methanol; contrastingly, the semisuprachannel structure of [Ag-3(NO3)(2)L-2](NO3) is insoluble in that solvent. In the present study, significant differences in molecular recognition and anion exchangeability between [Ag3L2(H2O)(2)](NO3)(3) and [Ag-3(NO3)(2)L-2](NO3) were found.