Finite molecular assemblies functional solids

Although a finite molecular assembly may form in either the liquid phase or the solid state, such an assembly will exhibit markedly different structural behavior in each medium. In the liquid phase, a molecular assembly will be in equilibrium with its parts, as well as possible undesired complexes.3a Such equilibria will reduce the structural integrity of an assembly and may require stronger forces to hold the parts together. It has been suggested that the sensitivity of multiple equilibria to subtle environmental factors in solution (e.g. solvent effects) has hindered the development of finite assemblies that exhibit function.3a In the solid state, the structural integrity... 

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