Synthesis of unique ionophores of penta-crown ethers

Structurally unique novel ionophores of penta-crown ethers were successfully synthesized. Diaza-18-crown-6 was designed as the parent crown ring. The penta-crown ethers were prepared by the reaction of 1,3,5-triacryloylhexahydro-1,3,5-triazine (TAHTA) with diaza 18-crown-6 followed by a Michael reaction. The binding interactions of the newly synthesized penta-crown ethers with alkali metal cations were examined; the results indicate that the new penta-crown ethers can bind alkali cations of different sizes.