Multi-target and highly selective halogenated disinfection byproducts detection based on micelle-based...

Area of Science:

• Environmental Chemistry
• Analytical Chemistry
• Materials Science

Background:

• Halogenated disinfection byproducts (DBPs) pose risks to water environments.
• Selective detection of similar DBPs remains a significant analytical challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a multifunctional sensing platform for the simultaneous and selective detection of halogenated DBPs.
• To utilize surfactant-induced clusteroluminescence for enhanced DBP sensing.

Main Methods:

• A sensing platform based on histidine-modified cyclodextrin (CDHis) and cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) was developed.
• Clusteroluminescence and through-space conjugation (TSC) were employed for detection.
• In situ ultrasound and imaging analysis were used for simultaneous detection.

Main Results:

• The platform exhibited blue emission from CDHis and green emission from CTAB-induced self-assembly.
• Hydrophobic trihalomethanes (THMs) decreased green emission, while hydrophilic trichloroacetic acid (TCA) induced red emission.
• Ultrasensitive detection limits were achieved: 21 μg/L for THMs and 3.5 μg/L for TCA.

Conclusions:

• The developed platform enables multi-target and selective detection of halogenated DBPs in water.
• This approach offers a novel method for trace DBP detection based on aggregate science.
• The sensing platform provides visual and simultaneous detection capabilities.