Extraction of actinide ions using three CMPO-functionalized pillar[5]arenes in a room temperature ionic liquid

•Three CMPO pillararenes were used for actinide ion extraction in an ionic liquid.•The metal ion extraction was manifold higher than that seen with CMPO in ionic liquid.•ML extracted species (1:1 complex) suggested inclusion complexes with one side of the ligand.•Stripping and radiolytic stability results were encouraging suggesting long term use.•The luminescence spectral studies indicated completed dehydrated extracted species suggesting strong complexation.