inclusionkomplekser

Inclusionkomplekser, also known as inclusion compounds or host-guest complexes, are a class of chemical compounds where a host molecule encloses a guest molecule within its structure. This enclosing can occur in various ways, leading to different types of inclusion complexes. The host molecule typically possesses a cavity or cage-like structure capable of trapping the guest. The forces holding the guest within the host are usually weak, such as van der Waals forces, hydrogen bonding, or dipole-dipole interactions, rather than strong covalent bonds.

The most common types of inclusion complexes include clathrates, where the guest is physically trapped within a cage formed by the host molecules, and molecular complexes, where the guest is incorporated into a cavity within a single host molecule. Cyclodextrins are a well-known class of host molecules that form inclusion complexes with a wide range of guest compounds due to their toroidal structure and hydrophobic inner cavity. Zeolites are also notable hosts, forming inclusion complexes within their porous frameworks.

The formation and properties of inclusion complexes are dependent on the size, shape, and chemical nature of both the host and guest molecules. These complexes have found applications in various fields, including drug delivery, where they can enhance the solubility and bioavailability of poorly soluble drugs, and in separation processes, where they can be used to isolate specific compounds. They are also utilized in catalysis, sensing, and as molecular containers. The study of inclusion complexes falls under the broader umbrella of supramolecular chemistry.