Static and Dynamic Nanosheets from Selective Assembly of Geometric Macrocycle Isomers

In contrast to the significant advances that have been made in the construction of two-dimensional (2D) nanostructures, the rational modification from static to dynamic 2D sheets remains a great challenge. Static and dynamic sheets formed from selective self-assembly of geometric macrocycle isomers based on anthracene units are presented. The self-assembly of the cis isomer generates static planar sheets, whereas the trans isomer forms dynamic rolled sheets which are reversibly unrolled upon stimulation by a thermal signal. Furthermore, the mixed solution of the two isomers exhibits self-sorting behavior, generating the coexistence of the two independent self-assembled structures, the planar sheets and the folded scrolls. The self-sorted supramolecular objects with considerable shape and size differences are able to be readily separated, one isomer from the other.