Collaborative Construction of a Silver Nanocluster Fluorescent Probe Using the Pyridinium-Based Ionic Liquid...

Area of Science:

• Nanomaterials Science
• Analytical Chemistry
• Environmental Science

Background:

• Arsenite (AsO3 3-) poses significant health risks due to its toxicity.
• Sensitive and selective detection methods for arsenite in water are crucial for environmental monitoring and public health.
• Existing detection methods may lack sensitivity, selectivity, or require complex procedures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel silver nanocluster (AgNC) fluorescent probe for the detection of arsenite (AsO3 3-).
• To utilize a pyridinium-based ionic liquid, [C4py][DCA], for the stabilization and enhancement of AgNC fluorescence.
• To investigate the probe's selectivity, sensitivity, and recovery mechanism for As(III) detection.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of silver nanoclusters using AgNO3 precursor, NaBH4 reducing agent, and [C4py][DCA] as a protective agent.
• Characterization of the synthesized silver nanoclusters and their optical properties.
• Fluorescence spectroscopy was employed to detect AsO3 3- and study the quenching and recovery mechanisms.

Main Results:

• The synthesized AgNCs exhibited enhanced fluorescence intensity due to the pyridine group in [C4py][DCA].
• The fluorescent probe demonstrated high selectivity and sensitivity towards AsO3 3-, with a linear detection range of 0-60 ppb.
• A low detection limit of 0.60 ppb for As(III) was achieved.
• The fluorescence quenching by AsO3 3- was reversible with the addition of H2O2, indicating a recovery mechanism.

Conclusions:

• The developed AgNC fluorescent probe, stabilized by [C4py][DCA], offers a rapid, sensitive, and selective method for As(III) detection in aqueous samples.
• The probe's ability to be recovered after quenching presents a significant advantage for continuous monitoring applications.
• This approach provides a promising tool for environmental water quality assessment and toxicological studies.