Synthesis,Crystal Structure and Complexing Properties of Calix[4]arene Schiff Bases

Four p‐tert‐butylcalix[4]arene derivatives with different Schiff base groups at the lower rim were efficiently prepared in three steps. p‐tert‐Butylcalix[4]arene was firstly O‐peralkylated with ω‐haloalkylphthalimide in the system of NaH/DMF to give calixarene tetraalkylphthalimides, which were in turn hydrazinolyzed to give tetraaminoalkylcalixarenes. Then by condensation of the latter with salicylaldehyde and 2‐hydroxy‐1‐naphthaldehyde, a series of calixarene Schiff bases were obtained in satisfying yields. The complexing properties of these Schiff bases for transition metal ions were investigated with UV spectroscopy.