The first direct synthesis of beta-unsubstituted meso-decamethylcalix[5]pyrrole.

The first direct synthesis of beta-unsubstituted meso-decamethylcalix[5]pyrrole from pyrrole and acetone, with moderate yield, is described. The results showed that a bismuth salt was necessary to obtain calix[5]pyrrole, with the best results obtained using Bi(NO(3))(3).