Designed Eu(III)-functionalized nanoscale MOF probe based on fluorescence resonance energy transfer for the reversible sensing of trace Malachite green

An ingenious nanoscale fluorescent sensor derived from Eu3+-postfunctionalized MIL-53 (Al) (Eu3+@MIL-53 [Al]) was fabricated though a simple and effective approach. Malachite green (MG) effectively turned off the luminescence of Eu3+@MIL-53 (Al) via fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET), thus enabling MG sensing. The developed probe exhibited instantaneous reusability after being cleaned with deionized water. The fluorescence intensity, quenching efficiency, and crystal structure of the recoverable sensor after five recycling processes were unchanged compared with those of the original sample. Moreover, the potential mechanism of MG detection was revealed in detail. This work represents the first attempt to determine MG in aquaculture water and products by using metal-organic frameworks (MOFs). The Eu3+@MIL-53 (Al) probe proved to be a remarkable fluorescence probe for MG with high selectivity, sensitivity, and excellent regeneration capability. It provides a promising functional platform for the recognition of illegal MG addition to aquaculture water and products.

Automated summary

An ingenious nanoscale fluorescent sensor based on Eu3+-postfunctionalized MIL-53 (Al) was developed for the detection of Malachite Green (MG) with high selectivity and sensitivity. The sensor exhibited instant reusability and maintained its performance after multiple recycling processes, while revealing the potential mechanism of MG detection. This work demonstrates the promising application of metal-organic frameworks in detecting illegal MG addition in aquaculture water and products.