Two multi-armed neutral receptors for α,ω-dicarboxylate anions

Two new multi-armed neutral receptors 1 and 2 containing thiourea and amide groups were synthesized by simple steps in good yields. Receptors 1 and 2 have a better selectivity and higher association constants for malonate anion than other anions examined by the present work. In particular, distinct color changes were observed upon addition of dicarboxylate anions to the solution of 1 in DMSO. The UV-Vis and fluorescence spectra data indicate that a 1:2 stoichiometry complex was formed between compound 1 or 2 and dicarboxylate anions of shorter carbon chain, and a 1:1 stoichiometry complex was formed between compound 1 or 2 and dicarboxylate anions of longer carbon chain through hydrogen bonding interactions.