Selective detection of 2,4,6-trinitrophenol based on a fluorescent nanoscale bis(8-hydroxyquinoline) metal complex

The reliable and accurate detection of explosives such as 2,4,6-trinitrophenol (TNP) and 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) is in high demand for homeland security and public safety. Although extremely high sensitivity towards TNT has been demonstrated, detection of TNP remains a challenge. In this work, a fluorescent nanoscale complex composed of bis(8-hydroxyquinoline) and Al(3+) ions has been prepared, characterized and applied in detection of TNP. This complex exhibits the ability to sense the nitro explosive TNP via a fluorescence quenching mechanism with high selectivity. A simple paper test system for the rapid monitoring of TNP was also investigated. The results show that Bhq-Al is a quite ideal sensing material for trace-level detection of TNP.