Synthesis of lariat organochalcogenoethers based on azacalix[3]arenes for the potentiometric detection of [UO2]2+ ions

The syntheses of azacalixarenes supported from three-armed lariat organochalcogenoethers are described. The molecules act selectively as highly sensitive potentiometric sensors for UO22+ ions in the presence of alkali, alkaline earth metals, transition and heavy metal ions under neutral conditions.