Amide-based fluorescent macrocyclic anion receptors

Two fluorescent anion receptors (1 and 2) based on amide macrocycle were synthesized and corresponding fluorescence quenching induced by anion complexation was observed in different degree. Receptors form 1:1 complexes with anions by hydrogen bonding interactions. Receptor 1 bound anions in the order of F->Cl- > H2PO4−- CH3COO− > >Br−, I− and receptor 2 showed high selectivity to F− over other anions.