Synthesis and Cation-Binding Properties of Novel p-Isopropenylcalix[n]arenes and Their Acetylated Derivatives

A novel two-step method was developed to prepare individual p-isopropenylcalix[n]arenes [n=4, 6, 8]. In the first step, linear phenolic oligomers were prepared in a basic medium from p-isopropenylphenol and paraformaldehyde. The second step, cyclization of the linear oligomers was carried out at higher temperatures. Ethylene glycol was used as medium, and sodium tetraborate-decahydrate as the catalyst. O-Acetylated derivatives were obtained by acetylation of the phenolic hydroxyl groups of p-isopropenylcalix[n]arenes [n=4, 6, 8]. The p-isopropenyl-calix[n]arenes and their acetylated derivatives were characterized by IR, ¹H NMR and UV spectroscopy, and elemental analysis. Their ability to extract metal cations from aqueous solutions was evaluated via metal picrate extraction experiments. A parallel investigation of the cation-binding ability of the p-tert-butylcalix[n]arenes [n=4, 6, 8] and their acetylated derivatives was also performed. The p-isopropenylcalix[6]arene hexaacetate is the most effective extracting agent for metal picrates, and shows strong affinity towards Rb cation.