Dual-functional fluorescent probes: Cyanide sensing and forensic fingerprint detection using imidazole derivatives

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Materials Science
• Forensic Science

Background:

• Development of multifunctional probes is crucial for streamlining analytical processes.
• Fluorescent probes with aggregation-induced emission (AIE) properties offer enhanced sensitivity and stability.
• Existing methods for ion detection and fingerprint visualization often require complex procedures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize and characterize novel fluorescent molecules for dual-function sensing.
• To evaluate the probe's efficacy in detecting cyanide ions in environmental and food samples.
• To assess the probe's performance in visualizing latent fingerprints for forensic applications.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of a series of fluorescent molecules based on 1-methyl-4,5-diphenylimidazole conjugated with 2-phenylacetonitrile derivatives (DPIH, DPICl, DPINO2).
• Modulation of intramolecular charge transfer (ICT) and fluorescence responses using electron-withdrawing groups.
• Detection limit determination for cyanide ions and analysis in real food samples.
• Evaluation of solid-state fluorescence for latent fingerprint visualization.

Main Results:

• DPICl exhibited high selectivity and sensitivity for cyanide (CN-) detection with a limit of 0.66 μM.
• Successful detection of cyanide in real food samples, including potatoes, apple seeds, and plum seeds.
• DPICl showed strong solid-state fluorescence suitable for latent fingerprint detection, revealing clear ridge patterns.

Conclusions:

• The synthesized DPICl probe demonstrates significant potential as a multifunctional tool for environmental and forensic applications.
• Its dual capability for cyanide sensing and latent fingerprint visualization offers a streamlined approach for safety and security.
• The probe's design highlights the versatility of AIE-based molecules for advanced detection technologies.