A highly selective fluorescent sensor for dual detection of Zn2+ and F− based on a new diarylethene

Abstract

A new diarylethene derivative with a coumarin unit was synthesized. Its multi-functional fluorescent switching behaviors were investigated by the stimulation of UV/vis light, Zn2+/EDTA, and F−. The diarylethene was highly selective toward Zn2+ and F− with different fluorescence colors and binding modes. Upon addition of Zn2+, its emission peak was blue-shifted by 32nm and emission intensity was enhanced by 57fold, due to the formation of a 1:1 metal/ligand complex, accompanied by a fluorescence color change from dull red to green. Moreover, the diarylethene was also selectivity to F− with the fluorescence color change from dull red to yellow. The dramatic fluorescence color change made the naked eye detection of Zn2+ and F− possible.