Complexation Properties of 1,3-Dialkoxycalix[4]arene-crown Derivatives: a Small-Angle Neutron Scattering Study

Calix[4]arene-crown ethers show strong affinity and high selectivity toward alkali, alkaline earth, and transition metal ions. We synthesised 1,3-dialkoxycalix[4]arene-crowns-6(CAL). This compound presents high selectivity for Cs cations. Small-angle neutron-scattering (SANS) experiments have been performed on micellar solutions of cesium dodecylsulfate in the presence of the calixarene as a function of ligand-to-surfactant mole ratio. From the analysis of the experimental data, the micellar structure, the partition of the calixarenes at the micellar surface and the intermicellar interactions have been determined.