Modification of calix[4]arenes with CMPO-functions at the wide rim. Synthesis, solution behavior, and separation of actinides from lanthanides

Two calix[4]arene tetraethers (Y = C5H11, C14H29) bearing on their wide rim four –N(Me)–CO–CH2–P(O)Ph2 residues were synthesized for the first time. Their ability to extract lanthanides and actinides from an acidic aqueous phase to organic phases (CH2Cl2, NPHE) was studied. In comparison to the corresponding –NH-analogs, they are less efficient extractants, the selectivity for the light over the heavy lanthanides is less pronounced, while there is still an interesting selectivity of Am3+ over Eu3+. Stability constants for selected lanthanide salts were determined also in homogenous phase (methanol, acetonitrile) but do not account for the different extraction results. The complexation of Gd…