Controlled self-assembly triggered by olefin metathesis: Cross-linked graphitic nanotubes fro amphiphilic hexa-peri-hexabenzocoronene

A report on a finding that acyclic diene metathesis (ADMET)(super 4) of hexa-peri-hexabenzocoronene (HBC) amphiphile results in the spontaneous formation of graphitic nanotubes with a cross-linked surface is presented. The cross-linked graphitic nanotubes have chemically accessible olefin functionalities on the surface and can, therefore be hybridized with a variety of substances with different functions.