Preparation, binding behaviours and thermal stability of inclusion complexes between (Z)‐jasmone and acyclic cucurbit[n]urils

Abstract (Z)‐jasmone is the most important contribution to the scents of perfumes and cosmetics. However, (Z)‐jasmone is water insoluble and highly volatile, which limits its development and application. Inclusion technology has become a promising strategy to improve the solubility and stability of hydrophobic small molecules. Here, we used saturated aqueous solution and freeze‐drying method to prepare solid inclusion complexes of (Z)‐jasmone and three acyclic cucurbit[n]urils (ACBs, M1‐M3), and studied their binding behaviours by fluorescence spectroscopy, NMR, XRD, FT‐IR, TG and DSC, confirming the formation of the host‐guest inclusion complexes. The stoichiometry of inclusion complexes was 1:1 by Job's plot. The inclusion complexes exhibited better water solubility, higher thermal stability and heat‐controlled release comparing with that of native (Z)‐jasmone. This work uncloses a new strategy to enhance the performance of essential oil and flavours/fragrances and further application in the field of cosmetic and food industry.