Ultrahigh luminescence quantum yield lanthanide coordination polymer as a multifunctional sensor.

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Chemical Sensing
• Luminescence

Background:

• Advanced sensors are crucial for detecting various analytes, including metal ions.
• Lanthanide coordination complexes (Ln-CPs) possess properties suitable for sensitive and multifunctional sensing applications.
• High luminescent quantum yields (QYs) are desirable for enhanced sensor performance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize and characterize novel alkali ion decorated Ln-CPs.
• To evaluate the sensing capabilities of these Ln-CPs for different analytes.
• To achieve ultrahigh luminescence quantum yields and multifunctional sensing.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of two series of alkali ion decorated Ln-CPs.
• Characterization of their structural and luminescent properties.
• Testing their ability to detect analytes like H+, Cd2+, and Cr3+ using optical responses.

Main Results:

• Achieved ultrahigh luminescence quantum yields of 77% (1a) and 92% (2a).
• Developed the first trifunctional lanthanide complex sensor (1a) for simultaneous detection and discrimination of H+, Cd2+, and Cr3+.
• Demonstrated an ultralow limit of detection (LOD) of 2.0 × 10-9 M for Cr3+ with a 2 h sensing time.
• Reported an unprecedented 92% luminescence QY for complex 2a.

Conclusions:

• The developed Ln-CPs exhibit excellent luminescent properties and sensing capabilities.
• Complex 1a represents a significant advancement in multifunctional chemical sensors.
• These findings open new avenues for designing highly sensitive and selective Ln-CP based sensors.