From simple rings to one-dimensional channels with calix[8]arenes, water clusters, and alkali metal ions

The macrocycle 4-tert-butylcalix[8]arene (L) was reacted with alkali metal carbonates (Li2CO3, Na2CO3, K2CO3, Rb2CO3, and Cs2CO3) at the interface of a biphasic THF/water system. Needle-like crystals with a general formula [Ax(4-tert-butylcalix[8]arene-xH)(THF)y(H2O)z] (with A=Li, Na, K, Rb, Cs, x=1, 2, y=4, 5, 8, and z=6, 7) were thereby obtained. The solid state structures were investigated by X-ray diffraction of single crystals and by TGA measurements. They do not appear to be maintained in solution.

Graphical abstractVarying alkali metal ions and the ratio of solvents THF/water, calix[8]arene ligands can be used to construct monomer, dimer, and finally polymer structures in which the cations are bridged by water molecules in channel systems.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide