Calixarenes
Calixarenes are m acrocyclic polyphenols which can be readily synthesised on a large scale, and in a range of ring sizes. They can also be functionalised easily, which makes them an attractive framework for the construction of crystal growth modifiers, and se lective receptors.
We are developing a range of new calixarenes for specific applications in the NRI research program. For example, the molecule shown here is under study as a receptor for soft metal cations such as thallium, lead and mercury. The structure shown is derived from a crystal structure (paper in preparation – collaboration with Allan White and Brian Skelton at UWA). Incorporation of such ionophores into ion selective electrodes is the topic of Ryan Chester’s PhD project. We are also using these systems as extractants for these metals which are environmental contaminants.
We have also reported studies of lanthanide complexes of large calixarenes, such as p-t-butylcalix[9]arene (S. Fleming et al, Dalton Trans., 3319 (2003)). The program GDIS was adapted to provide readily achievable simplified diagrams of these complex structures, an example of which is shown below.
