A colourimetric calix[4]pyrrole–4-nitrophenolate based anion sensor†

Abstract

The intense yellow colour of the 4-nitrophenolate anion 2, in MeCN or CH₂Cl₂ solution, dissipates upon complex formation with meso-octamethylcalix[4]pyrrole 1; the complex may be used as a colourimetric sensor for halide anions, such as fluoride, that displace the phenolate anion thereby restoring the yellow colour, characteristic of free 4-nitrophenolate anion, to solutions containing 1, 2 and the anion in question.

References

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