4-tert-butylcalix[4]arene having nitrile pendant groups as Hg2+ selective receptors

► New calix[4]arene nitrile derivatives were easily synthesized. ► New calix[4]arene nitrile derivatives were efficient and selective receptors for Hg2+ cation. ► Complexation stochiometry was firstly 1:2 (ligand:metal) in current study. ► It will find their applicability in various fields of analytical and environmental chemistry.