‘Halogen Bonding’ Interactions in Molecular Crystals: From Early Recognition to Recent Developments

Abstract

‘Halogen Bonding’, a non-covalent interaction between halogen atoms (as acceptors of electron density) and lone-pair-possessing atoms (mostly O and N) is reviewed from its early recognition till its utilization in recent years in the field of crystal engineering, molecular recognition and even in complex biological systems. This interaction, closely resembling hydrogen-bonding contact, has been investigated by several theoretical and experimental methods. The scope and potential of this interaction is discussed with the examples of crystal structures from literature and from our own laboratory.