A reversible and colorimetric fluorescence probe for highly sensitive detection of toxic BF3 in air

Abstract

BF3 is an important catalyst in organic synthesis and petrochemicals which widely used in many chemical reactions. However, minor leaks may lead to serious environmental pollution and deadly biological damage. Therefore, how to quickly discover BF3 with high selectivity and sensitivity is of great significance and challenge. Here, we designed a BF3 specific fluorescent probe on the Rhodamine's switch ring process. In the presence of BF3, the fluorescence intensity showed a remarkable increase (200-fold) and the color of probe changed obviously with quick respond (< 1 min). The probe showed high sensitivity for BF3 with a low detection limit (1.4 × 10−9 M). The sensing mechanism was demonstrated by mass spectra and NMR titration. Furthermore, a certain amount of BF3 could be firsthand detected by test papers in air handily and practically. This method may help in maintaining a safe air environment and has potential applications in industrial production.