Real time sensor for Fe³⁺, Al³⁺, Cu²⁺ & PPi through quadruple mechanistic pathways using a novel dipodal...

A quinoline-based small molecular probe, H₂L was designed, synthesized and characterized by different spectroscopic methods. It was utilized as a multi-responsive probe for the detection of Fe³⁺, Al³⁺, Cu²⁺ and PPi. It showed very selective instant turn-on fluorimetric response towards Fe³⁺and Al³⁺ with a detection limit in nanomolar range. Solutions of H₂L containing Fe³⁺ or Al³⁺ could sequentially sense PPi by a turn-off mechanism. Also, H₂L could determine the presence of Cu²⁺ very selectively among a series of other metal ions by a sharp change in colour. Detection of Cu²⁺ through colorimetry was further investigated by systematic UV-Vis studies and the potential of H₂L to act as a potential colorimetric sensor for Cu²⁺ was suitably established. Filter-paper strip experiments were conducted to demonstrate the practical utility of the proposed sensor. Potential applications of H₂L as a sensor for pH in the acidic range has also been explored.