Exploratory studies of novel ligand systems

Abstract

A range of novel ligand systems have been developed in three distinct phases and preliminary studies have been initiated to evaluate their complexation potential. Phase I incorporated the synthesis of single strand ligand systems, which were mainly based on amino acid residues. Techniques have been developed for the attachment of these ligand systems onto, firstly, a styrene monomer, and then later onto a pseudo-styrene linking group, viz. the p-toluoyl group. The linking reactions were based on the formation of amides or esters by the reaction of an acid chloride system with an amine or alcohol. Phase II involved the synthesis of bis-chain ligand systems and their attachment onto the p-toluoyl linking group. A further linking group was also developed at this stage, viz. the xylyl group. In the preparation of phase II ligand systems, use was made of malonic ester and iminodiacetic acid derivatives. Phase III has involved the synthesis of cyclic ligand systems, with skeletons based upon the structures used in phase I and phase II and two crown ether type systems have been prepared.