A multiple-detection-point fluorescent probe for the rapid detection of mercury(II), hydrazine and hydrogen sulphide

Abstract

A multiple-detection-point fluorescent probe (Probe 1) was developed for the rapid detection of mercury(II) (Hg2+), hydrazine (N2H4) and hydrogen sulphide (H2S). Probe 1 could detect Hg2+, N2H4 and H2S through different reaction sites and mechanisms, i.e. Hg2+ via a desulphurisation reaction, N2H4 via addition-cyclisation, and H2S via a nucleophilic addition reaction. N2H4 and H2S had hardly any effect on Hg2+ detection in C2H5OH, but Hg2+ interfered with N2H4 and H2S detection in DMSO, and Hg2+ and N2H4 interfered with H2S detection in DMSO. Rapid detection of Hg2+, N2H4 and H2S was achieved by a colour change in the test paper of Probe 1, which gradually turns dark in response to different concentrations of Hg2+, yellow with N2H4, and pink with H2S. Furthermore, Probe 1 could be used to detect Hg2+, N2H4 and H2S in real samples.