Upconversion/Downshifting Luminescence Ratio Sensor: Single Nanocomposite for Multiple Antibiotic Detection.

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Analytical Chemistry
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Antibiotic detection is critical in human and animal health, but current sensors lack versatility.
• Existing sensors typically detect only a single antibiotic type, limiting their practical application.
• Trace detection of diverse antibiotics remains a significant analytical challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and synthesize a novel luminescence ratio nanocomposite for versatile antibiotic detection.
• To enable simultaneous detection of antibiotics from different categories using a single platform.
• To elucidate the underlying mechanisms of upconversion and downshifting luminescence detection.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a luminescence nanocomposite (UCN-ATPA-Eu3+) by functionalizing upconversion nanoparticles (UCN) with 2-Aminoterephthalic acid (ATPA) and coordinating Eu3+ ions.
• Utilizing dual-mode luminescence detection (upconversion and downshifting) by switching excitation light sources (980 nm and 385 nm).
• Investigating Förster resonance energy transfer, inner filter effects, and antenna effects for detection mechanisms.

Main Results:

• The developed UCN-ATPA-Eu3+ nanocomposite demonstrated the ability to detect antibiotics from different categories.
• Dual-mode luminescence detection was achieved by switching excitation wavelengths, showcasing versatility.
• The nanocomposite exhibited high accuracy and repeatability in real sample analysis.
• Mechanisms involving FRET, IEF, and antenna effect were validated for both detection modes.

Conclusions:

• A novel luminescence ratio nanocomposite enables versatile and accurate trace detection of multiple antibiotic classes.
• The dual-mode excitation strategy provides a flexible platform for antibiotic sensing.
• The developed method shows high potential for application in real-world sample analysis, ensuring food and environmental safety.