Fusing pyrene and ferrocene into a chiral, redox-active triangle

Abstract

A macrocycle that integrates three ferrocene–pyrene dyads in a triangular C₂-symmetric arrangement is synthesised as a racemate in a simple one-pot approach. Crystal structural analysis reveals two enantiomeric conformers that pack alternatingly via π–π stacking and interconvert dynamically in solution. Electrochemical investigations indicate weak electrostatic interactions between Fc groups upon oxidation to a mixed valence triangle.