Rational design and detection applications of ratio fluorescence sensing based on CDs@Ln-MOFs composites

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Analytical Chemistry

Background:

• Luminescent metal-organic frameworks (LMOFs) show promise for sensing but are limited by environmental interference.
• Ratio-based fluorescence sensing with self-calibration is an emerging strategy to enhance reliability.
• Carbon dots (CDs) integrated with lanthanide ions (Ln3+) in MOFs (CDs@Ln-MOFs) offer synergistic advantages.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the design, preparation, luminescence mechanisms, and sensing applications of CDs@Ln-MOFs composites.
• To highlight the benefits of dual-signal output and self-compensation for enhanced sensing performance.
• To provide guidance for developing advanced fluorescent sensing platforms.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis and characterization of carbon dots (CDs).
• Construction of CDs@Ln-MOFs composites via in situ synthesis and post-synthesis modification.
• Investigation of fluorescence sensing mechanisms including quenching, enhancement, and ratio-based approaches.

Main Results:

• CDs@Ln-MOFs composites combine MOF confinement, stable Ln3+ emission, and broad CD emission for superior sensing.
• These composites enable dual-signal output and self-compensation, overcoming environmental interference.
• Successful applications demonstrated in detecting ions, biomolecules, disease biomarkers, and antibiotics.

Conclusions:

• CDs@Ln-MOFs composites represent a highly promising strategy for robust and reliable fluorescence sensing.
• The review provides a comprehensive overview of their potential in early diagnosis and environmental monitoring.
• Future research should focus on optimizing these platforms for real-world applications.