Controlled synthesis of mono-p-[(2,3-epoxy)propyl]- and mono-p-(2-oxoethyl)-tris-p-tert-butylcalix[4]arenes crystal structure determination of an epoxy calix[4]arene

Four new tri-tert-butylcalix[4]arenes bearing an epoxy or a carbaldehyde fu nction at the upper rim have been prepared by a multi-step synthetic pathwa y involving initial selective allylation of tris-(O-benzoyl)-tri-tert-butyl calix[4]arene, followed by either m-CPBA oxidation or ozonolysis of the all yl group. The benzoylated epoxycalixarene was obtained as single crystals, analysis of which confirmed the formation of the epoxide group and the part ial-cone conformation of the macrocyclic structure.