Dual‐Readout of the Mechanical Response of a Bis‐acridinium [2]Rotaxane

A [2]rotaxane built around a multi‐responsive bis‐acridinium macrocycle has been synthesized. Structural investigation has confirmed the interlocked nature of the molecule, and MD simulations illuminated its conformational dynamics with atomic resolution. Both halochromic and redox‐switching properties were explored to shed light on the mechanical response and electronic changes that occur in the bis‐acridinium [2]rotaxane. The topology of the rotaxane led to different mechanical behaviors upon addition of hydroxide ions or reduction that were easily detected by UV/Vis spectroscopy and electrochemistry.