Highly Sensitive Water Detection Through Reversible Fluorescence Changes in a syn-Bimane Based Boronic Acid...

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Materials Science

Background:

• Accurate detection of trace water in organic solvents is crucial for various chemical processes.
• Existing methods for water detection can be complex or lack sensitivity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a sensitive and reusable fluorometric and colorimetric sensor for trace water detection in organic solvents.
• To investigate the sensor's performance on a paper substrate for practical applications.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis and characterization of a syn-bimane based boronate ester (compound 1).
• Fluorometric and colorimetric measurements to assess sensor response to water.
• Adsorption of compound 1 onto filter paper to create a paper-based sensor.
• Evaluation of sensor reusability and detection limits.
• Analysis using 1H NMR and mass spectrometry to elucidate the response mechanism.

Main Results:

• The syn-bimane based boronate ester sensor exhibited a highly sensitive turn-off fluorescence response to water.
• Detection limits as low as 0.018% water (v/v) were achieved.
• The paper-based sensor demonstrated effective detection of both liquid water and humid atmospheres.
• The paper sensor showed reusability for up to 11 cycles with minor performance degradation.
• Hydrolysis was identified as the mechanism behind the sensor's response.

Conclusions:

• A novel syn-bimane based boronate ester serves as an effective sensor for trace water in organic solvents.
• The paper-based sensor offers a practical, reusable, and sensitive platform for water detection.
• The developed sensor technology has potential applications in quality control and environmental monitoring.