Synthesis, characterization and selective Cu2+ recognition of novel E– and Z–stilbenophanes

Article abstract of DOI:10.1080/10610278.2018.1528010

We have demonstrated the synthesis and characterization of novel E- and Z-stilbenophanes via four reaction steps. X-ray structure analysis showed that the p-electrons of the double bonds and the oxygen atoms pointing towards the center of a cavity of Z-isomer. Both isomers recognize selectively Cu²⁺ ions over other competing metal ions as measured by UV-vis titration by the detection limit 10–12?μM. The 1:1 ratio complex formation was confirmed by HRMS analysis. Theoretical calculations based on GIAO and CMAD approaches and ¹H NMR analysis confirmed the UV-vis data of Z-isomer.