Calix[4]arene-based Mannich and Schiff bases as versatile receptors for dichromate anion extraction: synthesis and comparative studies

A series of novel calix[4]arene-based Mannich (5 and 6) and Schiff base (9–11) receptors have been synthesized and characterized by various analytical techniques. Competitive two-phase extraction experiments of these novel calix[4]arene amine- and imine-containing derivatives revealed a strong affinity for dichromate anions $\left({\text{Cr}}_2{\text{O}}_7^{2?}/{\text{HCr}}_2{\text{O}}_7^{?}\right)$. The protonated alkylinium form of 5, 6 and 9–11 proved to be effective extractants for transferring the dichromate anions from an aqueous into an organic phase. Moreover, the extraction of dichromate anions by 5 and 9 in the presence of competitive anions such as F^?, Cl^?, Br^?, ${\text{NO}}_3^{?}$, ${\text{NO}}_2^{?}$, ${\text{PO}}_4^{3?}$ and ${\text{SO}}_4^{2?}$ showed that 5 and 9 could be selective anion receptors for dichromate anions in the presence of those anions.