A Naphthalenediimide–Imidazolium Macrocycle for Orthogonal Molecular Recognition

A naphthalenediimide-imidazolium macrocycle is shown to function as a dual-site supramolecular host for orthogonal molecular recognition. The electron-deficient cavity encapsulates planar aromatic and metal-complex guests through π-interactions, while peripheral imidazolium C2-H groups selectively recognize halide-containing metal complexes via hydrogen bonding, enabling complementary binding modes.