Synthesis of supramolecular polymers with calix[4]arene and β-cyclodextrin and their application in heavy metal ion absorption.

Two categories of supramolecular polymer monomers were produced by introducing the ureidopyrimidone quadruple-hydrogen bonding assemblies on the calix[4]arene and the β-cyclodextrin host units. The adsorption capacity of these supramolecular polymers for different metal ions was investigated by static adsorption. The results showed that at pH = 6 and when the adsorption equilibrium was reached, the supramolecular polymer with calixarene and β-cyclodextrin as the main body adsorbed up to 99% of Pb and Cd, respectively. Also, the supramolecular polymer connected with six carbon chains on β-cyclodextrin had better recognition of Cd and Pb, and the highest adsorption rate reached 99%. Industrial adsorbent materials from such supramolecular polymers will provide more options for water pollution control, especially for heavy metal ions.