Aggregation-Induced Emission (AIE) in Sucrose: Unveiling a Novel Luminescent Phenomenon for Sensing Applications

The emergence of aggregation-induced emission (AIE) in non-conjugated molecules challenges conventional paradigms in luminescent material design. Herein, we report the AIE activity of sucrose, a ubiquitous disaccharide devoid of traditional chromophores. While intrinsically non-emissive in dilute solution, sucrose exhibits robust luminescence upon aggregation, demonstrating a distinct AIE phenomenon. Furthermore, we exploit this property to develop a highly sensitive and selective fluorescence-quenching assay for ferric ions (Fe³⁺), achieving rapid and accurate detection. This discovery not only advances the fundamental understanding of AIE mechanisms but also highlights the potential of biocompatible saccharides for innovative sensing and optoelectronic applications.