Supramolecular Chemistry

This thrust focuses on the chemistry of molecular assemblies and the intermolecular bond and is central to:

• Separation of close isomers
• Manufacture of sensors
• Homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysis
• Drug transport
• Preparation of drug polymorphs
• Storage of volatile compounds

UCT Chemistry is one of very few laboratories in the world that studies the physical chemistry of supramolecular compounds. Specific projects within the research thrust include the encapsulation of insoluble drugs to enhance their bioavailability and the synthesis and characterization of open framework structures for use as selective filters and specific catalytic activity. (Bourne, Caira, Nassimbeni, Oliver)