A new calix[4]arene based ligand bearing four phosphonic acid groups was prepared by modification of p-tert-butylcalix[4]arene on the lower rim by bonding with four (CH2)3PO(OH)2 groups. The compound was characterized by NMR spectroscopy.
The compound obtained was used as an extractant for certain lanthanide ions (La3+, Eu3+, Yb3+). The extraction experiments were carried out at 25 +- 2 oC and pH 5.5 for 2 h.
The formation of the complexes with lanthanide ions was revealed by NMR experiments and luminescence spectroscopy. The extraction efficiencies of the prepared ligand decrease with decreasing radius of the lanthanide ions.