Abstract We report an efficient synthesis of cyclotris [(E)-3′-(biphenyl-3-yldiazenyl)] compounds (CTBs). An unsubstituted CTB molecule is accessible in four steps in 10% yield overall, whereas a hexa (methoxymethyl ether) CTB analogue was prepared in nine steps (26% yield). The final macrocyclization step was accomplished in up to 80% yield by using a metal-template effect. Furthermore, the photochromic properties were investigated, and all ...
