Incorporating sensitive chromophores into interlocked systems that are mechanically responsive to external stimuli is attractive for tuning of the dye’s optical properties and stability. Here, the authors report the mechanically controlled protection and deprotection of a squaraine dye within a [2]rotaxane, governed by macrocycle shielding/de-shielding upon chloride addition or oxidation.
- Janos Wasternack
- Hendrik V. Schröder
- Christoph A. Schalley
