Wide-and narrow-rim functionalised calix[4]arenes: synthesis and characterisation

Functionalisation of calix[4]arene at both the wide and narrow rims leads to the formation of compounds containing bipyridyl, via an amide linkage, at the wide rim and having either a butyl chain, a benzyl group or an alkyl ester functionality at the narrow rim. All compounds were characterised using 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopies. Initial binding studies with Ru(bipy)2Cl2 are reported. Graphical abstract Functionalisation of calix[4]arene was carried out such that metal complexation could occur at both the wide and narrow rims, a rare occurrence in calixarene chemistry