Anti AIE single molecule fluorescent switches for detection of heavy metal ions

The use of fluorescent probes for heavy metal ions is an efficient, low-cost, on-site operable detection method, and has been widely applied in both environmental and biomedical monitoring. Herein, we present a single-molecule anti AIE fluorescent sensor for the detection of heavy metal ions based on the fold/unfold conformational transition of AIE molecular modules in a single molecule triggered by the coordination of heavy metal ions. The fluorescent probe is able to detect a range of heavy metal ions at concentrations well below the "Hygienic Standard for Drinking Water", and is expected to be used as a fluorescent probe with a new detection mechanism for heavy metal ions for environmental detection or bio-monitoring applications.