Novel deep-cavity calix[4]arene derivatives with large s-triazine conjugate systems: synthesis and complexation for dyes

Two novel deep-cavity calix4]arenes 3 and 4 with large s-triazine π-conjugate systems were designed and synthesized in high yields by reacting calix4]arene with mono phenyl-substituted cyanuric chloride or further substitution with aniline. The liquid–liquid extraction experiment showed that they possessed excellent extraction abilities towards one cationic and three anionic dyes (Orange I, methylene blue, neutral red, brilliant green). The highest extraction percentage of compound 4 was 88.8 % for brilliant green. The complexation UV–Vis spectra of compounds 3 and 4 with four dyes indicated the existences of complexation action between hosts and guests with 1:1 ratio of complexation in DMSO solution. The association constants suggested that the larger π-conjugate system of compound 4 possessed the stronger complexation abilities than that of compound 3. The association constant of compound 4 with BG was as high as 8.1 × 10⁶ M^?1.