Calixcrowns: synthesis and properties

The synthesis and properties of calix[n]crowns (n = 4-8), calix[n]biscrowns and their related compounds, resorcinarene crowns, have been discussed and reviewed. These macrocycles exhibit remarkable ionophoric properties toward alkali and alkaline earth metal cations, as well as, to tertiary amines. The selectivity and efficiency of calixcrowns in binding cations have been attributed to their structural features, which include substituent effects and size of the crown ether moiety and, conformation of the parent calixarene.