References for Small Fluorescence Quantum Yields

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Photochemistry
• Spectroscopy

Background:

• Accurate determination of fluorescence quantum yields is crucial for various applications.
• Existing references for low quantum yields are limited, especially across the UV/Vis spectrum.
• Need for easily handled, photostable, and commercially available reference standards.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and validate three new compounds as reliable references for determining small fluorescence quantum yields.
• To cover the blue, green, and red regions of the UV/Vis spectrum.
• To assess the suitability of these compounds for routine fluorescence measurements.

Main Methods:

• Relative fluorescence quantum yield determination.
• Strickler-Berg analysis.
• Time-resolved fluorescence spectroscopy.
• Spectral analysis of absorption and emission spectra.

Main Results:

• Thymidine (blue), dibenzoylmethane (green), and malachite green chloride (red) were identified as suitable references.
• Fluorescence quantum yields were in the range of 10^-5 to 10^-4.
• Compounds demonstrated photostability, ease of handling, and commercial availability.
• Mirror-image symmetry between absorption and fluorescence spectra confirmed intrinsic emission.

Conclusions:

• Thymidine, DBM, and MG are proposed as valuable new references for low fluorescence quantum yield determination.
• The proposed compounds offer a reliable and accessible option for fluorescence spectroscopy.
• The validated methods ensure accurate and consistent measurements across different spectral regions.