Reusable and specific proton transfer signalling by inorganic cyanide in solution and solid phase

Area of Science:

• Chemical Sensing
• Analytical Chemistry
• Materials Science

Background:

• Cyanide detection is crucial due to its high toxicity.
• Existing methods for cyanide detection often lack sensitivity or specificity.
• Development of portable and reliable cyanide sensors is an ongoing challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a highly specific cyanide sensor.
• To investigate cyanide-mediated proton transfer signaling (PTS) for detection.
• To create a sensor with a dual-mode chromogenic and fluorogenic output.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of a diaminomalenonitrile (DAMN) derivative.
• Immobilization of the DAMN derivative onto a silica surface via dip coating.
• Investigation of PTS mechanism upon cyanide interaction.
• Characterization of chromogenic and fluorogenic signal generation.

Main Results:

• The DAMN derivative exhibited highly specific cyanide-mediated PTS.
• The sensor demonstrated a reversible chromogenic and fluorogenic response.
• Detection was effective down to micromolar concentrations in both solution and solid phases.
• Successful surface anchoring on silica was achieved without compromising recognition.

Conclusions:

• The developed DAMN derivative serves as a sensitive and specific cyanide sensor.
• The reversible PTS mechanism allows for dynamic signal readout.
• The sensor's performance in both solution and solid phases supports its potential for field applications.