Langmuir and LB properties of two calix[4]resorcinarenes: Interactions with various analytes

The ability of calixarene-based molecules to interact with amino acids has been the basis of many studies. The Langmuir and LB properties of two calix[4]resorcinarenes have been investigated. The properties of the layer formed at the air–water interface were studied by surface pressure–area isotherms. LB deposition onto glass substrates has shown that multilayer assemblies can be built up. The UV–vis spectra of resulting LB films have been recorded, indicating that the compounds are coloured as a result of intra-molecular charge transfer bands. The sensitivity of the surface pressure–area isotherms has been investigated in relation to the exposure to various analytes delivered from the subphase (i.e. amino acids). Furthermore, exposure of the LB films to a wide range of vapours (e.g. amines, alcohols, thiols) has led to modified UV–vis spectra.