Synthesis, characterization of novel p-tert-butylthiacalix[4]arene derivatives and its application for extraction of alkali and transition elements

Formation of novel lower rim derivatives of p-tert-butylthiacalix[4]arene through direct reflux between p-tert-butylthiacalix[4]arene tetrahydrazides (cone, partial cone and 1,3-alternate conformers) and N-methylisatin in absolute ethanol. The study is clearly showed a facile synthesis of di- and tetrasubstituted p-tert-butylthiacalix[4]arene derivatives (2, 3 and 4) with excellent yields (up to 95%). The novel products were investigated by using the state-of-the-art techniques such as FT-IR, H-NMR and C-NMR spectroscopies. Moreover, the potential applications of these derivatives were screened for their ability to detect and remove alkali and transition metals (Li, Na, K, Cs, Pb, Cd, Hg, Ni, Co, Cu, Ag) using the liquid–liquid extraction method with promising results.