A ratiometric fluorescence nanosensor for highly selective and sensitive detection of selenite

The instant and on-site detection of selenium still remains a challenge for environmental monitoring and medical prevention. We herein developed a ratiometric fluorescent nanosensor for accurate and on-site sensing of SeO3(2-) by linking the recognition molecule 3,3'-diaminobenzidine (DAB) onto the surface of carboxyl group modified CdTe@SiO2. The fluorescence of DAB on the surface of silica nanospheres could be selectively and efficiently enhanced by SeO3(2-) through a surface chelating reaction between DAB and SeO3(2-). Thus, in the presence of SeO3(2-), the nanosensor would show two characteristic fluorescence emissions of Se-DAB and CdTe QDs under a single excitation wavelength. The selectivity and the optimal conditions for the detection of SeO3(2-) were carefully investigated. The ratio of F530/F635 linearly increased with increasing SeO3(2-) concentration in the range of 0 to 2.5 μM and the detection limit reaches as low as 6.68 nM (0.53 ppb). This developed nanosensor has the capability of on-site detection in an aqueous system without any separation step. The Se concentrations in selenium-rich food were detected and the results were consistent with the values determined by ICP-AES.