Wettability recognition for isomeric phenylenediamine by nitro-calix[4]arene click chemistry

Abstract

A nitro-calix[4]arene (C4N2) self assembled monolayer (SAM) was formed via click chemistry. It showed a good selectivity for o-phenylenediamine compared to its m- and p-isomers and other aniline analogues, as demonstrated by the wettability and electrochemistry responses, with a detection limit of 10 pM. C4N2 can bind with o-phenylenediamine via electron donor–acceptor (D–A) interactions between the nitro and amino groups, which could be applied in chips for organic pollutants.