Design, synthesis and characterization of self-assembled As ₂L₃ and Sb₂L₃ cryptands

The syntheses and X-ray crystal structures of six new self-assembled supramolecular As and Sb-containing cryptands are described. Analysis in the context of previously reported As₂L₃ and Sb ₂L₃ cryptands reveals that small differences in ligand geometries result in significant differences in the helicity of the complexes and the stereochemistry of the metal coordination within the assembled complexes. Additionally, a new synthetic route is described which involves exposure of reactants to vacuum to help facilitate self-assembly.