Micelle to extended multi-component bilayer systems involving decyl and dodecyl imidazolium and pyridinium cations

Imidazolium and pyridinium cations bearing C10 or C 12n-alkyl chains form multi-component self-assembled bilayer arrangements in the solid state with p-sulfonated calix[4]arene and large tetra-aryl phosphonium cations, along with aquated Y3+ or Gd 3+. The phosphonium cations are embedded in bilayers of calixarenes with the head group of the n-alkyl imidazolium or pyridinium cation directed into the cavity of the calixarene. The end of the alkyl chain penetrates the adjacent bilayer, with the flexibility of the alkyl moiety itself important in predetermining the arrangement of the components in the bilayers. Procrystal isosurface in the solid state has been investigated using CrystalExplorer, and the nature of the species in solution investigated using 1H NMR spectroscopy and dynamic light scattering, in understanding the link between spherical self-assembled species in solution and extended structures in the solid state. © 2013 The Royal Society of Chemistry.