Dual-Ligand Functionalized Ag2s Quantum Dots For Turn-On Detection Of Lead (Ii) Ions In Mineral Samples Based On Aggregation-Induced Enhanced Emission

Lead ion (Pb2+) is considered as one of the most toxic elements because it damages human health and pollutes the environment. Therefore, it is of great significance to develop convenient assays for the detection of Pb2+ with high sensitivity. A simple fluorescent probe for selective Pb2+ sensing based on silver sulfide quantum dots (Ag2S QDs) was developed in this work. The Ag2S QDs with excellent fluorescence properties were synthesized without the need of oxygen-free condition. In the presence of Pb2+, the coordination between Pb2+ with glutathione ligand modified on Ag2S QDs could enhance the signal intensity of Ag2S QDs via aggregation induced enhanced emission (AIEE). Thus, the Pb2+ sensor was successfully developed based on a fluorescence turn-on mechanism. The Pb2+ sensor shows a linear detection range from 0.05-20.0 mu M, and the detection limit is down to 15.5 nM. Furthermore, the constructed assay have been successfully applied for the detection of Pb2+ in the mineral samples. The sensing system for Pb2+ detection based 3-MPA/GSH-Ag2S QDs has outstanding advantages, including fast response, high sensitivity, and easy operation. Therefore, it shows great potential in environmental detection.