A novel colorimetric and fluorescent sensor based on calix[4]arene possessing triphenylamine units

• A novel calix[4]arene derivative (CTP) with triphenylamine units were synthesized.
• The sensor properties of CTP were investigated using spectroscopic techniques.
• CTP exhibited naked eye detection for Hg2+ ion.
• It also showed a significant fluorescence decrease towards F− and Hg2+ ions.

A novel colorimetric and fluorometric calix[4]arene probe (CTP) bearing triphenylamine units was synthesized in good yield and characterized by combination of 1H, 13C, APT, COSY, FTIR, HRMS, and UV–vis spectral data. Ion-binding studies of CTP were investigated in acetonitrile with a wide range of cations and anions and the recognition process was monitored by luminescence, UV–vis and 1H NMR spectral changes. CTP exhibited naked eye detection for Hg2+ ion. Also it showed a significant fluorescence quenching towards F− ion.

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