Detection Of Diethyl Chlorophosphate Research Articles

Porphyrin complex-based reversible fluorescent film sensor for differentiating and detecting sarin mimics vapor

This study presents a TAPP-based fluorescent sensor for diethylchlorophosphate (DCP), a surrogate for sarin, addressing the critical challenge of detecting nerve agents. The sensor can form a reversible weak bond interaction with the PO group in sarin by using the reversible weak bond complexation mechanism in the porphyrin cavity, which is the key to realize the reversible function of the sensor. In this study, we constructed a fluorescence probe that combines the advantages of physical process and chemical reaction process sensing, which not only ensures selectivity, but also realizes continuous and reversible real-time detection of DCP. The sensor demonstrates excellent photochemical stability and sensitivity, with an actual detection limit of 10 ppt and a theoretical detection limit of 1 ppt. In addition, it can differentiate challenging interferents like HCl through response kinetics, offering a practical, cost-effective, and environmentally sustainable solution for nerve agent detection in high-risk environments.

On-spot detection of diethylchlorophosphate through device fabrication, pen and spray method based on intramolecular charge transfer modulated sensor molecule extending application to cell imaging

BackgroundDetecting diethyl chlorophosphate (DCP), a highly toxic chemical simulant for nerve agents like Sarin, Soman, and Tabun, is crucial due to its prevalence in warfare scenarios, as well as its presence in contaminated soil and air. Traditional detection methods often struggle with sensitivity and versatility, limiting their effectiveness in real-time, on-the-spot applications. Effective detection is vital for safety, environmental monitoring, and mitigating the risks associated with these hazardous substances. There is a pressing need for advanced sensors that can offer high sensitivity, specificity, and practicality in various environments. ResultsIn our study, we developed and introduced two ICT-based fluorocolorimetric sensors, TPAHY and TPAPD, designed for the detection of DCP. These sensors exhibit remarkable sensitivity, with limits of detection (LOD) at 23.31 nM for TPAHY and 28.42 nM for TPAPD. TPAHY proves to be an efficient sensor for the on-spot DCP detection, showcasing practical applications such as fluorescent sprays, pens, and detection devices. Upon addition of DCP, TPAHY undergoes a distinct colorimetric shift from yellow to orange, coupled with an enhancement of orange fluorescence. Conversely, TPAPD demonstrates a colorimetric transition from colourless to yellow and experiences fluorescence quenching from blue emission. To understand the underlying mechanisms, we conducted studies using density functional theory (DFT) and lifetime measurements, providing deeper insights into the sensor behaviours. SignificanceThe development of TPAHY and TPAPD provides reliable, sensitive, and versatile solutions for monitoring DCP. TPAHY not only serves as a useful tool for detecting DCP in various field applications but also extends its utility to biological imaging, as demonstrated in HeLa cell studies. This dual functionality enhances its relevance for both environmental monitoring and broader scientific investigations. These sensors represent a significant advancement in the detection of toxic chemicals, offering improved safety and research capabilities.

Chromogenic Detection of the Organophosphorus Nerve Agent Simulant DCP Mediated by Rhodium(II,II) Paddlewheel Complexes.

Organophosphorus nerve agents (OPNAs) pose a great threat to humanity. Possessing extreme toxicity, rapid lethality, and an unassuming appearance, these chemical warfare agents must be quickly and selectively identified so that treatment can be administered to those affected. Chromogenic detection is the most convenient form of OPNA detection, but current methods suffer from false positives. Here, nitrogenous base adducts of dirhodium(II,II) acetate were synthesized and used as chromogenic detectors of diethyl chlorophosphate (DCP), an OPNA simulant. UV-vis spectrophotometry was used to evaluate the sensitivity and selectivity of the complexes in the detection of DCP. Visual limits of detection (LOD) for DCP were as low as 1.5 mM DCP, while UV-vis-based LODs were as low as 0.113 μM. The dirhodium(II,II) complexes were also tested with several potential interferents, none of which produced a visual color change that could be mistaken for OPNA response. Ultimately, the Rh2(OAc)4(1,8-diazabicyclo[5.4.0]undec-7-ene)2 complex showed the best combination of detection capability and interferent resistance. These results, when taken together, show that dirhodium(II,II) paddlewheel complexes with nitrogenous base adducts can produce instant, selective, and sensitive detection of DCP. It is our aim to further explore and apply this new motif to produce even more capable OPNA sensors.

Highly specific and sensitive chromo-fluorogenic detection of sarin, tabun, and mustard gas stimulants: a multianalyte recognition approach.

Nerve agents are the most notorious substances, which can be fatal to an individual because they block the activity of acetylcholinesterase. Fighting against unpredictable terrorist assaults and wars requires the simple and quick detection of chemical warfare agent vapor. In the present contribution, we have introduced a rhodamine-based chemosensor, BDHA, for the detection of nerve gas-mimicking agents diethylchlorophosphate (DCP) and diethylcyanophosphonate (DCNP) and mustard gas-mimicking agent 2-chloroethyl ethyl sulfide (CEES), both in the liquid and vapor phase. Probe BDHA provides the ability for detection by the naked eye in terms of colorimetric and fluorometric changes. It has been revealed that the interaction between nerve agents mimics and probe BDHA facilitates spirolactam ring opening due to the phosphorylation process. Thus, the highly fluorescent and colored species developed while probe BDHA is colorless and non-fluorescent due to the intramolecular spirolactam ring. Moreover, probe BDHA can effectively recognize DCP, DCNP, and CEES in the µM range despite many toxic analytes and could be identified based on the response times and quantum yield values. Inexpensive, easily carried paper strips-based test kits were developed for the quick, on-location solid and vapor phase detection of these mustard gas imitating agents (CEES) and nerve gas mimicking agents (DCP and DCNP) without needing expensive equipment or skilled personnel. More remarkably, the test strips' color and fluorescence can be rapidly restored, exposing them to triethyl amine (TEA) for cyclic use, suggesting a potential application in the real-time identification of chemical warfare agents. To accomplish the on-location application of BDHA, we have experimented with soil samples to find traces of DCP. Therefore, the chromo-fluorogenic probe BDHA is a promising, instantaneous, and on-the-spot monitoring tool for the selective detection of DCP, DCNP, and CEES in the presence of others.

A benzoxazole-triphenylamine conjugated fluorogenic probe for specific detection of sarin gas mimic diethylchlorophosphate.

In this study, an excellent chromo-fluorogenic PMPA probe, (E)-4-(((4-(benzoxazole-2-yl)phenyl)imino)methyl)-N,N-diphenylamine, is introduced for the detection of sarin gas mimic diethyl chlorophosphate (DCP) in solution and gaseous phases. On adding DCP into PMPA solution in a pure DMSO and water-DMSO (4 : 1) medium, it exhibits a hypsochromic shift from yellow to colorless and from no fluorescence to highly intense blue-violet photoluminescence via the formation of a phosphorylated PMPA-DCP product due to the inhibition of intramolecular charge transfer (ICT) and photoinduced electron transfer (PET) mechanism. The sensor could detect DCP in the presence of several other notorious guest analytes with a detection limit in the μM range. Moreover, to accomplish the on-spot detection of DCP and explore the practical applicability of the probe, a paper strip-based test kit, "dip-stick" method, and, more interestingly, a real sample analysis was demonstrated in spiked soil samples.

Ionic liquids-based organo nano-fluorosensor for fast and selective detection of sarin gas surrogate, diethylchlorophosphate

This work intends to develop a sensitive and easily applicable ionic liquid (IL) based fluorimetric sensor for detecting sarin surrogate, diethylchlorophosphate (DCP) in solution and gas phases, respectively. We have designed and synthesized a pyrene butyrate anion-based IL (PBIL) from the sodium salt of pyrene butyrate and trihexyltetradecylphosphonium chloride (P66614Cl) by a simple ion exchange mechanism. By utilizing reprecipitation methods, PBIL-based nanoparticles, nPBIL, has been fabricated. Various conventional analytical techniques have confirmed the formations of PBIL and nPBIL. The as-prepared nPBIL shows a structured emission band from 300 to 420 nm along with an excimer-like emission range from 420 nm to 600 nm and displays bright cyan color photoluminescence because of the stacking of pyrene moieties in a nanocrystalline fashion. Interestingly, due to the introduction of DCP in the water-suspended nPBIL, there is a slight (6 nm) blue shift in the UV–visible absorption spectra with an immediate reduction in Mie-scattering. Simultaneously, there is a gradual decrease in excimer-like emission with a synchronized increase in monomeric emission with the steady introduction of DCP in the water-suspended solution of nPBIL due to the formation of a phosphorylated product. The limit of detection (LOD) utilizing our as-fabricated organo nanosensor, nPBIL, towards the detection of DCP is estimated to be 7.32 µM and found to be superior to many chemosensors available in the literature. An nPBIL-stained test kit experiment has also been demonstrated as a carriable and visible photonic device for the on-site detection of DCP within the assembly of other analogous harmful analytes. Also, a dip-stick analysis has been performed for selective recognization of DCP vapor. The effectiveness of nPBIL in identifying and quantifying DCP demonstrated its potential for usage as a photonic device for practical sample investigation.

Deciphering the sensing mechanism in a sarin gas surrogate, diethylchlorophosphate specific probe: Colorimetric observation and theoretical analysis

The extreme toxicity of organophosphates (OPs) nerve agents poses a significant public health risk and national safety. Increasing interest in developing reliable and accurate methods for simple and fast detection of these toxic, i.e., poisonous chemicals, is necessary and urgent. In this contribution, [(E)-3-(4-(dimethylamino)phenyl)allylidene)amino)phenol] (DPAP), a cinnamalimine-based chromogenic probe with high selectivity and sensitivity towards the detection of sarin mimic diethylchlorophosphate (DCP), has been introduced. The detection limit of DPAP towards the detection of DCP is in the nM region. The developed probe DPAP shows reddish pink color upon treatment with DCP and reverses to its original one by adding triethylamine (TEA); it is observed eight times reversibility by alternative addition of DCP and TEA. The detailed mechanism has been elucidated through the density functional theoretical analysis depicting the energy profile diagram and Frontier molecular orbital analysis. To establish the practical application, we have demonstrated a paper strips-based test kit to establish the capacity of DPAP for on-spot detection and quantification of DCP. A dip-stick experiment has also been performed to identify DCP in the gaseous phase within the various OPs, inorganic phosphates, and other toxic analytes to establish the probe, DPAP, as a proficient chemosensor. To detect the response capacity of probe DPAP towards the identification and quantification of DCP, a time-dependent UV–visible spectrophotometric experiment, and dip-stick method have been performed for 0–6 min. A smartphone-based readout technique has been executed for on-spot detection and quantification of DCP in remote areas. The present contribution introduced an excellent probe and technique for identifying and quantifying sarin gas in actual threatening situations. It would be helpful to monitor the environmental toxicology from exposure to these toxic nerve agents.

Smartphone coupled, solution, solid and vapour phase sensing of nerve agent mimic by 1,8-naphthalimide derived Schiff base

A 1,8-naphthalimide based Schiff base, SAL, comprising of n-butyl-1,8-naphthalimide and 2-hydroxysalicyaldehyde as fluorophore and receptor units, respectively, has been utilized for the efficient detection of nerve agent mimic, diethyl chlorophosphate (DCP). Upon interaction with DCP, blue shift in the UV–vis band and enhancement in emission peak of SAL was observed with detection limit of 15.4 µM based on fluorescence titration data. The sensor was capable to selectively detect various concentrations of DCP by naked eye as well as fluorescent color change in solid, solution and vapour phase in the presence of stockpile of other competitive analytes. Further, the colorimetric changes were coupled with the smartphone via a color detector app for the cost-effective, convenient and on-site detection of DCP.

Fabrication of a re-usable benzoxazole-based colorimetric sensor for selective and sensitive recognition of sarin mimic, diethylchlorophosphate

This report introduces a colorimetric benzoxazole-scaffold molecule, BPDA, to recognize a toxic sarin gas mimic, diethylchlorophosphate (DCP), in both solution and gas phases, respectively. The yellow color of the BPDA solution is slowly transferred into a noticeable fuchsia-pink color for the gradual accumulation of DCP, which is visualized in the bare eye. The fuchsia-pink color of the BPDA-DCP solution is wholly reversed to the yellow color of free BPDA due to the steady addition of triethylamine (TEA). Our developed BPDA-based colorimetric sensor shows excellent selectivity towards DCP with a detection limit of 44.5 nM. Also, a paper strip and smartphone-based assay analysis have been demonstrated for the practical utility of our BPDA for immediate detection of DCP within the stockpiles of similar toxic analytes. Also, a dip-stick method has been employed to identify and quantify the DCP vapor selectively among the other analogous poisonous organophosphates.

Pyridinic-N-rich carbon dots in IFE-based Turn-off Fluorometric detection of nerve agent Mimic- Diethyl chlorophosphate and multicolor cell imaging.

Fluorometric sensors for the detection of nerve agent mimics have received a lot of interest nowadays due to their high sensitivity and selectivity, ease of operation, and real-time monitoring. Pyridinic-N-rich carbon dots (NCDs) prepared through microwave-assisted pyrolysis of l-Malic acid and urea have been explored first time in this work as a novel turn-off fluorescent probe for the sensitive and selective detection of diethyl chlorophosphate (DCP), a nerve agent mimic. The as-prepared carbon dots contained a large amount of pyridinic nitrogen on their surface, which can modulate the photoluminescence properties of the NCDs. The blue emissive NCDs possessed both excitation wavelength-dependent and independent emission behavior. The detection of DCP was premised on quenching of the fluorescence emission intensity of NCDs in the presence of similar chemical reagents (e.g., trimethyl phosphate, triethyl phosphate, triethyl phosphonoacetate, triphenyl phosphate, diphenyl phosphate, tributyl phosphate). Fluorescence quenching of the NCDs in the presence of DCP has been attributed to the inner filter effect (IFE). From the linear Stern-Volmer plot (R2=0.9992), the limit of detection (LOD) was found to be 84μM for sensing DCP for the concentration ranging between 3 and 15mM. The biocompatibility of NCDs was assessed through cytotoxicity assay on MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells. Fluorescence imaging demonstrated that NCDs have low cytotoxicity and can be employed successfully in cell imaging.

A PET and ESIPT-communicated ratiometric, turn-on chromo-fluorogenic sensor for rapid and sensitive detection of sarin gas mimic, diethylchlorophosphate

Fast and precise identification of toxic G-series nerve agents in the solution and vapor phase is urgently needed to save human beings from unwanted wars and terrorist attacks, which is challenging to execute practically. In this article, we have designed and synthesized a sensitive and selective phthalimide-based chromo-fluorogenic sensor, DHAI, by a simple condensation process that shows ratiometric and turns on chromo-fluorogenic behavior towards Sarin gas mimic diethylchlorophosphate (DCP) in liquid and vapor phases, respectively. A colorimetric change, from yellow to colorless, is observed in the DHAI solution due to the introduction of DCP in daylight. A remarkable cyan color photoluminescence enhancement is noticed in the presence of DCP in the DHAI solution, which is observable to the naked under a portable 365nm UV lamp. The mechanistic aspects of the detection of DCP by employing DHAI have been revealed by time-resolved photoluminescence decay analysis and 1H NMR titration investigation. Our probe DHAI exhibits linear photoluminescence enhancement from 0 to 500μM with a detection limit of nanomolar range from non-aqueous to semi-aqueous media. For practical utility, a DHAI-stained test kit employing Whatman-41 filter paper has been fabricated and used as a portable and displayable photonic device for on-site detection of Sarin gas surrogate, DCP. Also, a dip-stick experiment has been demonstrated to identify the vapor of Sarin gas mimics DCP colorimetrically and fluorometrically. The concentrations of DCP in various water samples have been evaluated with the help of a standard fluorescence curve for real sample analysis.

Zirconium-based metal-organic framework loaded agarose hydrogels for fluorescence turn-on detection of nerve agent simulant vapor.

Developing reliable sensors that accurately detect deadly chemical gases is critical to global security. Nerve agents are one of the most dangerous chemicals in the world and are often found in gaseous forms in the environment, which remain a challenge to detect because of their low levels. In this paper, a fluorescent probe based on a Zr-based metal-organic framework UiO-66-NH2 was proposed. The specific binding between the Zr-O site of UiO-66-NH2 and diethyl chlorophosphate (DCP) blocked the ligand-to-metal charge transfer (LMCT) process in UiO-66-NH2, thereby enabling the fluorescence turn-on detection of DCP. More importantly, a simple and portable hydrogel soft-solid platform (UiO-66-NH2@Aga) was constructed by incorporating UiO-66-NH2 into the formation process of agarose (Aga) hydrogel for fast and sensitive detection of gaseous DCP. When the hydrogel was exposed to a low concentration of DCP vapor, its fluorescence changed from colorless to bright blue, allowing visualization of the DCP gas for analysis. The UiO-66-NH2@Aga integrated solid-state platform showed an excellent response to DCP vapor in the detection range of 1.98 to 9.90 ppm and with a detection limit of 1.16 ppm. This work opened up a unique way to design a convenient, low cost and practical gas physical examination platform.

A Coumarin151 derived ratiomteric and turn on chemosensor for rapid detection of sarin surrogate

A coumarin151-derived electron donor–acceptor-based dyad (DATC) has been designed and developed for the selective detection of sarin surrogate diethylchlorophosphate (DCP) in solution and gas phases, respectively. A ratiometric UV–visible absorption spectral change with a colorimetric visualization from yellow to colorless is observed in the presence of DCP. Turn-on fluorescence at 480 nm is found due to the disrupted excited state intramolecular proton transfer process (ESIPT) within the DATC. Also, the photoinduced electron transfer (PET) process from electron-rich N, N-diethylamino (-NEt2), and imine (–CH = N) functional groups to coumarin moiety is inhibited due to the phosphorylation process. A visual cyan color could be seen under 365 nm UV light irradiation, which is also well supported by the color chromaticity diagram. The sensitivity of DATC toward the detection of DCP can be possible down to the nanomolar (nM) range from aqueous to a non-aqueous medium. Further, a paper strips-based test kit has been fabricated for the practical utility of the present DATC probe to identify a trace amount of DCP in the stockpiles of related analytes. Also, a dip-stick experiment has been demonstrated for the selective detection of DCP vapor. The performance of DATC toward the DCP proved that it could be exploited as a signal tool for real sample analysis.

Cellulose Acetate-Cellulose Nanowhisker Nanocomposite Immobilized with a DCDHF-Hydrazone Chromophore toward a Smart Test Strip for Colorimetric Detection of Diethyl Chlorophosphate as a Nerve Agent Mimic.

Exposure to nerve agents, which are usually colorless and odorless gases, may cause organ failure, paralysis, or even quick death. Diethyl chlorophosphate (DCP) has been recognized as one of the most well-known chemical warfare nerve agent mimics. In the current study, we introduce a simple strategy for the development of a portable and reversible nanocomposite-based microporous strip for naked-eye detection of DCP within a few seconds. A dicyanomethylenedihydrofuran hydrazone (DCDHF-H) chromophore was synthesized by an easy azo-coupling reaction and encapsulated in situ during the preparation of cellulose acetate/cellulose nanowhisker/hydrazone (CA-CNW-H) nanocomposites. These CA-CNW-H nanocomposites displayed a bathochromic shift in the absorption intensity of about 142 nm from 438 to 580 nm with the increase of the DCP concentration. The present CA-CNW-H sensor strip displayed a detection limit for DCP ranging from 25 to 200 ppm. The color change of CA-CNW-H from yellow to purple due to exposure to DCP was detected by CIE Lab analysis. The morphology, fibrous crystallinity, thermal stability, and mechanical properties of the prepared CA-CNW-H sensor strips were investigated.

Fast and visual detection of a chemical warfare agent mimic using a simple, effective and portable chemodosimeter

Organophosphorus compounds (OPs) as chemical warfare agents (CWAs) pose a great threat to human health. For the issue of global security, it is highly demanded to establish fast and efficient detection methods for monitoring CWAs. This work presented a benzothiazole-based fluorescent chemodosimeter (BT-OH) for the detection of diethylchlorophosphate (DCP) via “ESIPT-OFF” mechanism, in which the phenyl hydroxyl group could efficiently be phosphated by DCP and turn to phosphorester, thus bringing about obvious fluorescence lighting-up. BT-OH shows rapid response (within 6 s) towards DCP with good linearity and specificity, as well as low detection limit (0.186 μM). Furthermore, a polystyrene-based testing membrane immobilized with BT-OH was prepared for real-time detection of DCP vapor with good performance. Therefore, this work provides a new manner for the detection of DCP by using a fluorescent chemodosimeter with the advantages of high sensitivity and selectivity, ultra-fast detection, easy-to-manipulate, as well as in situ naked eye observation.

A Reusable Polymeric Film for the Alternating Colorimetric Detection of a Nerve Agent Mimic and Ammonia Vapor with Sub-Parts-per-Million Sensitivity.

Thin polymeric films were developed for the vapor-phase sequential colorimetric detection of a nerve agent mimic and ammonia with high sensitivity. N-(4-Benzoylphenyl)acrylamide (BPAm), N,N-dimethylacrylamide (DMA), and (E)-2-(methyl(4-(pyridine-4yldiazenyl)phenyl)amino)ethyl acrylate (MPDEA, M1) were copolymerized via free radical polymerization (FRP) to yield p(BPAm-co-DMA-co-MPDEA), hereafter referred to as P1. P1 exhibits selective sensing properties toward diethyl chlorophosphate (DCP), a nerve agent mimic, in pure aqueous media. Upon the addition of DCP, the pyridine groups of P1 were quaternized with DCP, accompanied by a color change from yellow to pink due to the enhancement of the intramolecular charge transfer (ICT) effect. In situ generated quaternized P1, hereafter referred to as P2, after DCP sensing was used to selectively detect ammonia via dequaternization in an aqueous medium. Ammonia detection was indicated by a color change in the solution from pink back to yellow. A surface-immobilized P1 film was prepared and employed for the vapor-phase detection of DCP, demonstrating that an amount of as low as 2 ppm was detectable. Ammonia vapor was also successfully detected by the P2 film via the ammonia-triggered removal of the quaternized phosphates. Alternating exposure of the film to DCP and ammonia resulted in the corresponding color changes, thereby demonstrating the reversibility of the system. The reusability of the polymeric film for detecting DCP and ammonia in the vapor phase was confirmed by performing four sequential colorimetric detection cycles.

Liquid and gaseous state visual detection of chemical warfare agent mimic DCP by optical sensor

A rhodamine-deoxylactum-based sensor (RDS) as a colorimetric and fluorimetric sensor for the immediate detection of chemical warfare agent mimic diethyl chlorophosphate (DCP) was designed, synthesized and characterized by NMR and mass spectral studies. The DCP-sensing mechanism was triggered by phosphorylation and ring opening of the deoxylactum followed by intramolecular cyclization. The DCP-sensing mechanism was further confirmed by mass spectral analyses. The presence of other metal ions and acids had no influence in the detection of DCP. Furthermore, the prepared test kit was efficient for the detection of nerve gas agent DCP in the gaseous phase that too in both normal light and UV lamp, and the result can be observed with the naked eye.

Organoiridium(III) Complexes as Luminescence Color Switching Probes for Selective Detection of Nerve Agent Simulant in Solution and Vapor Phase.

In this work, cationic organoiridium(III) complex based photoluminescent (PL) probes have been developed to selectively detect the chemical warfare nerve agent mimic, diethyl chlorophosphate(DCP) at nanomolar range by distinct bright green to orange-red luminescence color switching (on-off-on) in solution as well as in the vapor phase. Interference of other chemical warfare agents (CWAs) and their mimics was not observed either by PL spectroscopy or with the naked-eye in solution and gas phase. The detection was attained via a simultaneous nucleophilic attack of two -OH groups of the 4,7-dihydroxy-1,10-phenanthroline ligand with DCP by forming bulkier phosphotriester. The detailed reaction mechanism was established through extensive 1H NMR titration, 31P NMR, and ESI-MS analysis. Finally, a test paper strip and solid poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) film with iridium(III) complex 1[PF6] were fabricated for the vapor-phase detection of DCP. The solution and vapor-phase detection properties of these luminescent Ir(III) complexes can offer a worthy approach into the design of new metal complex based PL switching probes for chemical warfare agents.

A Naphthalimide‐Based Fluorescent Turn‐On Sensor for the Selective Detection of Diethyl Chlorophosphate

AbstractA naphthalimide derivative, named 4‐(2‐aminophenoxy)‐N‐(2‐ethylhexyl)‐naphthalimide (AEN), was synthesized and characterized by NMR and ESI‐MS. The photophysical behaviors of AEN toward diethyl chlorophosphate (DCP) were investigated by fluorescence spectrometry. Moreover, the detection mechanism of AEN for DCP was evaluated by 1H, 31P NMR and ESI‐MS spectroscopy. These results show that the fluorescence intensity of AEN significantly increased with the augment of DCP concentration. No obvious interference with the DCP detection was observed in the presence of other common solvents (e. g. tetrahydrofuran, dimethyl sulfoxide, n‐hexane, N,N‐dimethylformamide, and isopropanol), phosphorus‐containing reagents (e. g. dimethyl methylphosphonate, and triethyl phosphate), brominated compounds (1‐bromobutane) and chlorinated compounds (e. g. 1,2‐dichloroethane, chlorobenzene, carbon tetrachloride), indicating that AEN possesses satisfactory selectivity and sensitivity for the detection of DCP.

Fast and Ultrasensitive Detection of a Nerve Agent Simulant Using Carbazole-Based Nanofibers with Amplified Ratiometric Fluorescence Responses.

In this work, we report the fast and ultrasensitive detection of a nerve agent simulant in the gas phase, diethyl chlorophosphate (DCP), by using carbazole-based nanofibers from 1. When exposed to trace DCP, the formed pyridine-phosphorylated product in 1 nanofibers can cause amplified ratiometric fluorescence responses, i.e., amplified fluorescence quenching via quenching excitons within the diffusion length of 1 nanofibers and simultaneously amplified turn-on fluorescence responses via harvesting excitons within the diffusion length to give the intramolecular charge transfer (ICT) emission at a longer wavelength. On the basis of these amplified ratiometric fluorescence responses, detection of DCP with fast response (ca. 3 s), ultrasensitivity (4 ppb), and improved selectivity is achieved.