Selective recognition by novel calix system: ICT based chemosensor for metal ions

A new calix[4]pyrrole derivative bearing four dansyl groups through hydroxyl groups has been synthesized and duly characterized by FT-IR, NMR and ESI-MS. Tetra dansylated calix[4]pyrrole (TDCP) shows selective behavior for U(VI), Th(IV) and Fe(III) ions among all other metal ions, e.g. Li(I), Na(I), K(I), Ca(II), Ni(II), Cd(II), Cu(II), Zn(II), Pb(II), Hg(II) and Ag(I), in the absorption spectra as well as in the emission spectra. The absorption spectra show a bathochromic shift while the emission spectra along with red-shift exhibit quenching for U(VI), Th(IV) and Fe(III) ions. The binding constants, stoichiometry and quantum yields have been determined. The mechanism of quenching by Stern–Vohmer equation has also been discussed.