Outer surface interactions to drive cucurbit[8]uril-based supramolecular frameworks: possible application in gold recovery.

ABSTRACT

Q[8]-based honeycomb-like frameworks can be obtained in [AuCl4]--free aqueous HNO3 solution and aqueous HCl and HNO3 solutions that contain [AuCl4]-. The outer surface interaction of Q[8] with planar inorganic anions [AuCl4]- and NO3- is the main driving force. These frameworks exhibit a high selectivity for imprisoning [AuCl4]- that could establish a process for gold recovery.