Solid-State Fluorescence-based Sensing of TATP via Hydrogen Peroxide Detection

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Analytical Chemistry
• Chemical Sensing

Background:

• Triacetone triperoxide (TATP) is a high explosive posing significant security risks.
• Effective detection methods for TATP vapors are crucial for safety and security applications.
• Fluorescent sensors offer potential for sensitive and rapid detection of explosive materials.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a sensitive fluorescent sensor for the detection of triacetone triperoxide (TATP) vapors.
• To investigate the use of fluorenylboronate ester-based thin films for TATP detection.
• To understand the sensing mechanism involving hydrogen peroxide and organic bases.

Main Methods:

• Thin films of fluorenylboronate ester chromophores were prepared.
• Sensing mechanism explored via fluorescence spectroscopy (absorption and photoluminescence).
• Real-time sensing measurements conducted using cyanofluorenyl boronate ester films.

Main Results:

• A fluorescence "turn-on" mechanism was observed upon conversion of boronate esters to phenoxides by hydrogen peroxide.
• Organic bases were critical for rapid conversion and anion formation.
• Cyanofluorenyl boronate ester films showed enhanced stability, higher quantum yields, and red-shifted spectra.
• Real-time detection of acid-decomposed TATP vapor achieved with a response time of seconds and a limit of detection of 40 ppb.

Conclusions:

• Fluorenylboronate ester-based thin films are effective fluorescent sensors for TATP vapor detection.
• The "turn-on" fluorescence mechanism coupled with spectral shifts enables high-sensitivity detection.
• Optimized materials, like cyanofluorenyl boronate esters, provide rapid response and low detection limits for TATP.