Synthesis and Photophysical Properties of [3]Catenanes composed of Two or Three Different Rings: Proximity Effect of the Chromophores

<jats:p>We synthesized [3]catenanes via intramolecular Sonogashira-type reaction. A macrocyclic phenanthroline-copper(I) iodide complex promoted the cyclization reaction providing [2]- and [3]catenanes. By using acyclic precursors with pyrene or naphthalene diimide (NDI) moieties, we successfully synthesized [3]catenanes with two different ring components (ABB-type) as well as [3]catenanes with three different ring components (ABC-type). In the ABC-type [3]catenane, interactions between the pyrene and NDI moieties were observed. The photophysical properties of the catenanes were examined.</jats:p>