Molecular recognition and quantitative analysis of xylene isomers utilizing cataluminescence sensor array

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Xylene isomers are common industrial pollutants requiring accurate detection.
• Existing methods for isomer differentiation can be complex and costly.
• Cataluminescence (CTL) sensing offers a sensitive detection pathway.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a facile and effective sensor array for molecular recognition and quantitative analysis of xylene isomers.
• To explore the use of nanomaterials Y2O3, γ-Al2O3, and ZrO2 as CTL probes.
• To establish a novel strategy for differentiating similar chemical compounds.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a sensor array comprising three distinct CTL sensors.
• Utilizing Y2O3, γ-Al2O3, and ZrO2 nanomaterials as sensing probes.
• Optimization of reaction conditions for enhanced CTL signal response.
• Quantitative analysis of xylene isomers based on CTL intensity.

Main Results:

• The sensor array demonstrated effective molecular recognition and quantitative analysis of xylene isomers.
• A linear range of CTL intensity versus concentration for xylene isomers was established from 86.70 to 8670.00 mg m⁻³.
• The array successfully differentiated between similar chemical compounds, outperforming single sensors.

Conclusions:

• A novel CTL sensor array based on Y2O3, γ-Al2O3, and ZrO2 nanomaterials provides a facile and effective method for xylene isomer detection.
• The sensor array strategy is a significant advancement for identifying similar chemical compounds.
• This technology holds substantial promise for future applications in environmental and industrial monitoring.