p-Bu i -calix(8)arene) †

i; 2, p-Bu i ); the crystal structures of these complexes of hexa-deprotonated calix[8]arenes show that mixed metal, polynuclear, inorganic cores can be formed within the large and flexible cavity of calix[8]arenes. The binding of metal ions to the calixarenes and their derivatives is an area of intense research interest. 1 Although the coordination chemistry of the smaller calixarenes, and in particular the calix[4]arenes, has been investigated in great detail, the larger calixarenes potentially allow the formation of molecular, polynuclear complexes within their more flexible, central cavities. Several dinuclear complexes of the calix[8]arenes have been reported,