Methanofullerenes from Macrocyclic Malonates

In this paper we describe the synthesis and intercomparison of several new methanofullerenes, each bearing a macrocyclic crown ether containing a malonate moiety directly attached to the [60]fullerene core. Their complexing abilities with primary alkylammonium ions were investigated by NMR and mass spectrometry, and also by transport experiments through a liquid membrane. We also report on their electrochemical behaviour, together with EPR analysis of their supramolecular complexes with alkyl ammonium molecules labelled with a stable nitroxide radical.