Selective sodium ion transfer across a water/1,2-dichloroethane micro-interface by a calix[4]arene derivative

► A calixarene derivative (DBC4) facilitate sodium ion transfer across micro-interface. ► The transfer across water/1,2-DCE interface has reversible nature electrochemically. ► The data show the occurred complex following TIC/TID mechanism has 1:1 stoichiometry. ► DBC4 is a selective ionophore for Na+ ion among alkali and alkaline-earth metal ions.