Synthesis and multiparameter sensor properties of the crown‐containing thiophene derivatives

A novel ditopic receptor was constructed as a combination of bisthiophene with pyridinylvinyl and crown-containing styryl fragments. In the receptor, the pyridine residue was able to coordinate Fe2+, Cd2+, and Mg2+ metal cations, whereas the oxocrown ether moiety bound with the alkaline earth metal (Mg2+, Ca2+, and Ba2+) cations. 1H NMR, optical, electrochemical, and ESI-MS results provided conclusive evidence of a complex formation through both the coordination centers of the molecule. The obtained results showed that cation complexation induces optical and electrochemical changes, particularly for each binding center. This type of multiparameter sensor provides interesting perspectives for the future design of unique sensors, promising different analytical techniques. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.