Self-assembly of Supramolecular Amphiphile Constructed by Hydrophilic Calix[4]arene Derivative and Phenol Palmitate

Self-assembly of supramolecular amphiphile consisting of 25,27-bispolyethyleneglycol-calix[4]arene (2mPEG-C[4]A) and phenol palmitate has been studied in a water/dioxane cosolvent. Based on the host-guest interaction of 2mPEG-C[4]A and phenol palmitate, a supramolecular calixarene amphiphile can be readily constructed. Interestingly, by only adjusting the molar ratio of calix[4]arene hosts to benzene derivatives, various morphologies with different size appear. Because of the weak interaction between 2mPEG-C[4]A and phenol palmitate, the formation of these assemblies is dynamic. Such a dynamic behavior can be applied in the controlled release of dyes and drugs.