A novel dual-function probe for recognition of Zn²⁺ and Al³⁺ and its application in real samples

A dual-function probe NAHH based on naphthalene was synthesized and characterized. Based on the combination effects derived from the inhabitation of photo-induced electron transfer (PET) and C=N isomerization, probe NAHH achieved in the recognition of Zn2+ and Al3+ both through obvious fluorescence enhancement and color changes detected by naked eye, respectively. Probe NAHH showed high sensitivity with the limit of detection as low as 3.02 x 10(-7) M for Zn2+ and 7.55 x 10(-8) M for Al3+, indicated the capability of probe NAHH in trace detection for Zn2+ and Al3+. The binding ratio of NAHH with Zn2+ and Al3+ were all 1:1 determined by Job plot, and the corresponding association constant was calculated as 8.48 x 10(4) M-1 and 4.45 x 10(5) M-1, respectively. The mechanism was further confirmed by FT-IR, H-1 NMR titration and ESI-MS analysis. Furthermore, probe NAHH was successfully applied in logic gate construction and the detection of Zn2+ and Al3+ in Songhua River and test stripe. Fluorescence imaging experiments confirmed that NAHH could be used to monitor Zn2+ in plant root. (c) 2019 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.