Characterisation of inclusion complexes using powder X-ray diffraction, and low- and mid-frequency Raman spectroscopy

Introduction to inclusion complexes
▪ Cyclodextrins (CDs) are cyclic oligosaccharides which have three forms, α, β, and γ, that represent six, seven, or eight glucopyranose units, respectively
▪ CDs consist of a hydrophobic internal cavity and a hydrophilic external surface which can incorporate with many organic and inorganic molecules to form inclusion complexes
▪ Formation of inclusion complexes with CDs can increase the stability, bioavailability, and aqueous solubility of the guest
molecules, such as drugs, which makes inclusion complexes not only applicable in pharmaceuticals, but also food processing and environmental and chemical engineering
▪ Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are crystalline materials consisting of metal centres and organic linkers that have
extraordinary properties due to their high surface area, adjustable pore size and thermal stability
▪ Depending on the framework MOFs can be first generation MOF, second generation MOF (rigid MOF) or third generation MOF (flexible MOF).
▪ MOFs offer new opportunities for inclusion of guest molecules compared to traditional organic hosts