Information transfer in calix[4]arenes: influence of upper rim substitution on alkaline metal complexation at the lower rim

Novel calix[4]arene amides have been synthesized and their interaction with alkaline cations has been evaluated through extracting aqueous solutions of Li-, Na- and K-picrates with solutions of calix[4]arene amides in CH2Cl2. Electron-withdrawing groups on the upper rim of the calix[4]arene scaffold were found to have a negative effect on the absolute amount of metal ions extracted. The decreased extraction ability is accompanied by a higher selectivity towards sodium cations.