Mono- and Multi-Layers

Thin films incorporating or consisting of calixarenes have been widely investigated. The capacity of such films to adsorb both ions and neutral species has engendered particular interest in their use in sensor devices. Semiconductors, non-linear optical and pyroelectric materials or switchable systems for data storage are further examples of their potential use [1]. Both monoand multi-layer films can be formed from calixarenes and resorcarenes, using a variety of techniques. This chapter deals with the fundamental basis of calixarene thin film applications, including film formation and characterisation as well as studies of selectivity in small molecule interactions. Real and potential appl…