Siloxane-functionalized calix[4]pyrrole: synthesis, characterization and modification of silica-based solid supports

A siloxane-functionalized calix[4]pyrrole derivative was synthesized starting from the corresponding alcohol-functionalized calix[4]pyrrole. Structural elucidation was carried out by using NMR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry and X-ray diffraction analysis. The use of this siloxane-functionalized calix[4]pyrrole for modification of various silica solid supports (silica gel 60, fume silica, and SiO2 nanopowder) was studied. Characterization of the modified silica solid supports was achieved by FTIR, TGA, and elemental analysis. It was also shown that the production of silica nanoparticles is possible via a sol-gel reaction of siloxane-functionalized calix[4]pyrrole and tetraethoxysilane (TEOS). Calix[4]pyrrole modified silica solid supports were found to sense chloride anions of Azure A dye.