A novel ratiometric fluorescence sensor based on lanthanide-functionalized MOF for Hg²⁺ detection

Post-synthesis modification is an effective strategy for the preparation of rare earth organic framework materials and the derivation of high-performance functional materials. Here, we report the preparation of a dual emission Ln-MOF material (Eu-Ca-MOF) using Ca-MOF as the parent framework and introducing Eu³⁺ ions into its channels through post-synthesis modification. Eu-Ca-MOF has good photoluminescence properties and can be used as a ratiometric fluorescence sensor (I₃₈₁/I₅₉₀) to detect Hg²⁺ ions in water sensitively. The characteristic of Eu-Ca-MOF obtained is that when the material is dispersed in an aqueous solution containing Hg²⁺ ions, the characteristic emission of the ligand at 381 nm is enhanced, while the characteristic emission of Eu³⁺ at 590 nm is quenched. The peak-to-height ratio of the two emissions can be used to achieve highly sensitive detection of Hg²⁺ ions even in the presence of other potentially competing analytes. In addition, Hg²⁺ induces Eu-Ca-MOF to produce a significant ratiometric luminescence response, which changes its luminescence color from red to blue, which is beneficial to visual analysis of naked eyes. At the same time, Eu-Ca-MOF has a wider detection range (0.02-200 μM), and a lower limit detection (2.6 nM) for Hg²⁺ ions. The lanthanide compounds prepared by post-synthetic modification provide an effective synthesis strategy for photoluminescent materials.