Siloxane-functionalized calix[4]pyrrole: synthesis, characterization and modification of silica-based solid supports

A siloxane-functionalized calix[4]pyrrole derivative was synthesized starting from the corresponding alcohol-functionalized calix[4]pyrrole. Structural elucidation was carried out by using NMR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry and X-ray diffraction analysis. The use of this siloxane-functionalized calix[4]pyrrole for modification of various silica solid supports (silica gel 60, fume silica, and SiO₂ nanopowder) was studied. Characterization of the modified silica solid supports was achieved by FTIR, TGA, and elemental analysis. It was also shown that the production of silica nanoparticles is possible via a sol-gel reaction of siloxane-functionalized calix[4]pyrrole and tetraethoxysilane (TEOS). Calix[4]pyrrole modified silica solid supports were found to sense chloride anions of Azure A dye.