Synthesis of some novel quinone diimine derivatives of benzo-15-crown-5 for application in Hg(2+) recognition.

A series of novel fluoroionophore bearing derivatives of benzo-15-crown-5 were synthesized by the amination of benzo-15-crown-5 followed by condensation with different quinones in the presence of titanium tetrachloride (TiCl4 ) and 1,4-diazabicyclo-[2.2.2]octane. The compounds were characterized by infrared, (1) H and (13) C nuclear magnetic resonance, mass spectroscopy and elemental analysis. Absorption and fluorescence spectral characteristics of these compounds were studied. It was observed that the anthraquinone derivative was acting as an Hg(2+) ion sensor.