Outer-sphere association of calixarenes and other macrocyclic ligands with metal complexes as the basis for the design of molecular devices

The regular features of the formation of outer-sphere associates of water-soluble calixarenes with metal complexes in solutions and their structure in the solid state are analysed. A comparison with analogous data for other outer-sphere macrocyclic ligands is carried out. Some physicochemical properties of the outer-sphere associates are considered in regards to their potential use for the development of new processes and materials.