Precise and selective detection of perchlorate at trace level using side-chain engineered perylene sensor: From probe...

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Environmental Science
• Materials Science

Background:

• Onsite perchlorate detection is crucial for drinking water safety but faces challenges in sensitivity, accuracy, and selectivity.
• Perchlorate contamination poses risks to human health and the environment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and develop a highly sensitive and selective aggregation-induced emission (AIE) luminescent sensor for trace-level perchlorate detection.
• To validate the practical application of the sensor for onsite water analysis.

Main Methods:

• Covalent coupling of twisted perylene and alkyl pyridine to create an AIE luminescent probe (Per-4C6).
• Characterization of the probe's affinity, selectivity, sensitivity, response time, and anti-interference capabilities.
• Integration of the probe into a smartphone-based detection platform.

Main Results:

• The Per-4C6 probe exhibited a high affinity for perchlorate (binding energy of -79.09 kcal/mol).
• Achieved record-breaking selectivity (Kij∼219), rapid response (<2 min), high sensitivity (2026.9 a.u./mM), and a low limit of detection (6.37 nM).
• Demonstrated robust anti-interference capabilities and successful validation in a smartphone-based platform.

Conclusions:

• The developed AIE probe offers a reliable and efficient solution for onsite perchlorate detection at trace levels.
• This technology contributes to ensuring drinking water safety and supports sustainable water management.
• The study showcases the potential of AIE probes in environmental monitoring applications.