Synthesis and characterization of linear molecular assembly of crystalline calix[4]arenes dithianes

A family of six new variously substituted calix4]arene dithianes has been prepared from respective formyl and acetyl derivatives. Shorter reaction time, mild conditions, and facile isolation of desired products are attractive features of the described method. The new 1,2-dithiane derivatives have been characterized by ¹H NMR, ¹³C NMR spectroscopy, and FABMS analysis. The crystal structure of one of the acetyl calix4]arene dithiane was determined by X-ray diffraction analysis, which revealed a dithiane capped linear molecular organization. Preliminary evaluation of bis (dithiane) calix4]arene derivatives as molecular receptor for transition metal ions has revealed strong interaction with Hg²⁺ in 1:1 stoichiometry.