Homocalixpyridines: Ligands Exhibiting High Selectivity in Extraction and Sensor Processes

A novel spherical host architecture, based on pyridine subunits, has been created. It exhibits selective complexing properties toward soft metal ions (right), which have been tested in extraction and sensor processes. The complex-forming behaviour can be tailored by variation of the size of the cavity and by substitution. Homocalixpyridines are interesting in view of their application as selective carriers in separation and sensing techniques.