A silver nanocluster-based nanoprobe for thiram determination in food and environmental samples

A novel silver nanocluster (AgNC) nanoprobe was prepared using a pyrimidine derivative, 4,6-diamino-2-mercaptopyrimidine, as a surface ligand and reductant for sensitive and selective monitoring of the fungicide thiram (Thi). AgNCs exhibited a distinct fluorescence quenching response in the presence of Thi. The photo-induced electron/energy transfer mechanism was responsible for this quenching process, as confirmed by LUMO-HOMO energy levels of AgNCs and Thi. By using this sensing platform, the AgNC nanoprobe with good photophysical properties, superior specificity and satisfactory sensitivity (LOD, 0.37 µM) has been successfully used to detect Thi in real food and environmental samples.