A luminescent organic cocrystal for detecting 2,4-dinitroaniline

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Analytical Chemistry
• Environmental Science

Background:

• 2,4-dinitroaniline (2,4DNBA) is a persistent environmental pollutant posing significant ecological risks.
• Existing detection methods for 2,4DNBA are often challenging and lack specificity.
• Developing sensitive and efficient detection strategies for 2,4DNBA is crucial for environmental protection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel fluorescent probe for the sensitive and specific detection of 2,4-dinitroaniline (2,4DNBA).
• To investigate the detection mechanism of the fluorescent probe.
• To explore the practical application of the probe in real-world environmental samples.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of a luminescent organic cocrystal (TCNB-8HQ) from 1,2,4,5-tetracyanobenzene (TCNB) and 8-hydroxyquinoline (8HQ).
• Utilizing the TCNB-8HQ cocrystal as a fluorescent probe for 2,4DNBA detection.
• Characterization of the detection mechanism using fluorescence and UV-vis absorption spectroscopy.
• Preparation of portable indicator strips for on-site detection.

Main Results:

• The TCNB-8HQ cocrystal exhibited a fast and specific fluorescent response to 2,4DNBA.
• The detection method showed a linear range of 0.5-200 μmol/L with a low detection limit of 0.085 μmol/L.
• The detection mechanism was attributed to competitive absorption between the cocrystal and 2,4DNBA.
• Satisfactory results were obtained for 2,4DNBA detection in real samples with good spiking recovery.
• Portable indicator strips demonstrated the practical feasibility of the system.

Conclusions:

• The TCNB-8HQ cocrystal serves as an effective fluorescent probe for sensitive and selective 2,4DNBA detection.
• The developed method offers a promising tool for environmental monitoring of 2,4DNBA.
• The gram-level, environmentally friendly synthesis strategy and portable application highlight the practical value of this research.