Molecular tectonics: From simple tectons to complex molecular networks

Molecular networks in the crystalline phase are infinite periodic molecular assemblies formed under self-assembly conditions between self-complementary or complementary tectons. These millimeter-size structures may be regarded as hypermolecules formed by supramolecular synthesis using reversible intertecton interactions. Molecular tectonics, based on molecular recognition events and their iteration, is the approach dealing with design and preparation of molecular networks in the solid state. In this Account, an overview of the rational behind this approach is presented. A variety of molecular networks based on van der Waals interactions and hydrogen and coordination bonding possessing diverse connectivity and topology are discussed.