β-Cyclodextrin Based Nanosponges in Organic Synthesis

Abstract

The particular β-cyclodextrin 3D structure, with its hydrophilic surface and apolar cavity, has enabled to partially or totally encapsulate hydrophobic molecules of appropriated size and shape in aqueous solution as well as in solid-state through the formation of a reversible host–guest complex. Accordingly, β-cyclodextrin based nanosponges have been prepared and used in previous years for the synthesis of organic compounds. In this review, we are going to mention some of the recent reports on the application of β- cyclodextrin 3D nanosponges in organic synthesis catalysis. Furthermore, it should be mentioned that these compounds have also been utilized for numerous applications including drug delivery, gas storage, rubber manufacture, diagnostics, cosmetics, agriculture, smart fabrics, water purification, and flame retardants.