Calix[4]Arenes in the partial cone conformation as ionophores in silver ion-selective electrodes

Two calix[4]arene derivatives, in the partial cone conformation, with sulfur-containing functionalities, were tested as neutral carrier ionophores in potentiometric silver-selective electrodes of conventional membrane and membrane-coated glassy carbon electrode types. Comparison with a calix[4]arene in the cone conformation was made. The membranes were prepared using either 2-nitrophenyl octyl ether or bis(ethylhexyl)sebacate as plasticizers and potassium tetrakis(p-chlorophenyl)borate as the lipophilic salt in a poly(vinyl chloride) matrix. Both calix[4]arenes yielded electrodes of good sensitivity (approx. 47 mV dec−1) in the range 10−4–10−1 M and excellent selectivity [log KAg,MH+ < −1.5] of transition, alkali and heavy metal cations, including sodium, mercury(II) and lead(II) cations. Temperature effects and reproducibility of response were determined and the interfering effects of mercury(II) and lead (II) ions on the membranes were noted. The partial cone conformation allows improved selectivity over certain cations relative to calix[4]arenes in the cone conformation.