Novel high sensitivity dual-channel chemosensor for detecting CN− based on asymmetric azine derivatives in aqueous media

Abstract

A novel cyanide specifically selective and highly sensitive chemosensor HSD had been designed and synthesized. • The synthesis process of HSD is simple and environmentally friendly. • HSD is shown “naked-eye” and fluorescence “turn-off” response for CN − in solution. • It has been applied to monitor CN − in an aqueous solution. • The mechanism of action of HSD on CN − is the deprotonate. • A test strip of HSD was prepared to detect CN − quickly and easily. Specific monitoring of trace levels of poisonous ions by naked eyes is still a significant challenge in the surroundings. Herein, we developed a novel asymmetric azine dual-channel sensor (HSD) applied for selectively detecting the CN − in the aqueous media. The selectivity and sensitivity of sensor HSD for anions sensing were investigated by measuring the photophysical properties. The results show that HSD recognizes CN − with good selectivity and sensitivity, with an “off” fluorescence response and apparent color change (from colorless to yellow) under visible light and strong anti-interference to other common anions. According to fluorescence titration of sensor HSD to CN − , the detection limit was determined to be as low as 1.02 × 10 −8 M. In addition, the reaction mechanism of the probe has been studied by 1 H NMR titration and DFT theoretical calculations. Finally, the test strips were prepared and verified to be a convenient and high-efficiency test kit for detecting CN − by naked eyes in the actual sample.