Abstract
A simple and convenient synthesis of cyclic hydroquinone oligomers was reported. KOBut-catalyzed direct condensation of p-methoxyphenol and paraformaldehyde in tetralin gave p-methoxycalix [8] arene together with [7] arene as a minor component. When linear p-methoxyphenol oligomers were heated in diphenyl ether, p-methoxycalix [6] arene was selectively obtained in good yield. Then, the p-methoxy group of [6] or [7] arene was easily converted to the hydroxy group by treatment with BBr3 in dichloromethane. However, the reaction of [8] arene could not be succeeded because of its lower solubility. It was observed that OH groups in the lower rim of p-hydroxycalix [n] arene formed strong hydrogen-bonding. A novel ionophore based on calix [6] arene dodecaester preferred to complex Cs+rather than other alkali and alkaline earth cations. Further, polycondensation between hexamer and sebacoyl chloride was studied.
