Hydrogen-bonding and π-π interaction promoted solution-processable mixed matrix membranes for aromatic amines detection

Detection of hazardous compounds can alleviate risk to human health. However, it remains a challenge to develop easy-to-use testing tools for carcinogenic aromatic amines. Herein, we presented a conjugated moleculebased aniline detector, mixed matrix membranes (MMMs), through the solution-processable strategy. The pentacene-based dispersed phase is achieved using the state-of-the-art ionic liquids (ILs) as the continuous phase, based on which MMMs are easily manufactured by a solution process. Moreover, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and quantum mechanical calculations suggested that hydrogen bonding and pi-pi interaction between ILs cations and pentacene could promote the dissolution. These prepared MMMs can offer easy-operation and onsite detection of carcinogenic primary aromatic amines with eye-readable fluorescence signal. This work provides a paradigm for the design of a portable testing device for various hazardous compounds.

Automated summary

This study presents a detector for carcinogenic primary aromatic amines that offers easy-operation and onsite detection through the use of ionic liquids and solution processing. The prepared detector provides an eye-readable fluorescence signal and serves as a paradigm for designing portable testing devices for various hazardous compounds.