Neutral isocyanide-templated assembly of pillar[5]arene [2] and [3]pseudorotaxanes.

Unprecedented pillar[5]arene-isocyanide pseudorotaxane complexes are reported. Extensive 1H-NMR experiments reveal remarkably strong binding affinities of alkyl diisocyanide guests (Ka > 105 M-1 in CDCl3) by pillar[5]arenes. Characterised by multinuclear 1H and 13C-NMR spectroscopy and single-crystal X-ray diffraction, it is demonstrated that pillar[5]arenes are capable of encapsulating a series of alkyl diisocyanides wherein either [2]- or [3]pseudorotaxanes can be formed by varying the alkyl chain length. Moreover, electron-deficient aryl isocyanides, are demonstrated to form inclusion complexes within the cavities of pillar[5]arenes stabilised by multiple C-H⋯π interactions.