Synthesis of novel Hg2+ receptors based on N-benzyloxyamide derivatives and their application to anion-selective electrodes

Novel Hg2+ receptors having two N-benzyloxyamide groups are synthesized, an d their complexation ability toward metal cations is examined. The structur e of the formed complexes was elucidated by ESI-MS and H-1 NMR spectroscopy . Deprotonation of the amide groups allows the receptors to form stable com plexes with Hg2+. As an application of this neutral Hg2+ complex, an anion- selective electrode combined with a cationic additive is prepared, and exhi bits an anti-Hofmeister selectivity pattern with enhanced selectivity for t he iodide anion. The overall selectivity pattern of the electrode is I- > C lO4- > SCN- approximate to Br- > salicylate(-) > NO2- > Cl- > NO3- >> HCO3- > SO42- > F- > H2PO4-.