A Chalcone-based Fluorescence Probe for H₂S Detecting Utilizing ESIPT Coupled ICT Mechanism

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Environmental Science
• Materials Science

Background:

• Accurate hydrogen sulfide (H2S) detection is crucial for environmental monitoring.
• Azide-binding fluorescent probes offer a promising approach for H2S sensing.
• Existing methods may lack sensitivity, specificity, or broad applicability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel fluorescent probe for sensitive and selective H2S detection.
• To investigate the mechanism of fluorescence quenching and enhancement.
• To evaluate the probe's performance in real-world environmental samples.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of the Chal-N3 probe by combining a 2 -Hydroxychalcone scaffold with an azide moiety.
• Characterization of the probe's photophysical properties, including fluorescence spectroscopy.
• Investigation of the probe's response to H2S, including sensitivity, selectivity, and pH tolerance.
• Application of the probe for H2S detection in natural water samples.

Main Results:

• The Chal-N3 probe effectively quenches fluorescence by blocking the ESIPT process.
• Addition of H2S triggers a significant fluorescence enhancement with a large Stokes shift.
• The probe exhibits high sensitivity, specificity, and tolerance to a wide pH range.
• Successful application of the probe for H2S detection in natural water samples.

Conclusions:

• The developed Chal-N3 probe is a highly effective tool for H2S detection.
• The probe's design overcomes limitations of previous methods, offering improved performance.
• This work provides a valuable new method for environmental monitoring of H2S.