A photoluminescent Au(i)/Ag(i)/PNN coordination complex for relatively rapid and reversible alcohol sensing

Trinuclear complex [Au2Ag(dppmaphen)(2)(CN)(2)]PF6 photoluminesces on exposure to low molecular weight alcohols. This emission is likely due to C-HMIDLINE HORIZONTAL ELLIPSIS pi interactions between the analyte and -PPh2 group, that inhibits non-radiative relaxation of the photoexcited state. Photoluminescene was quenched by removing the analyte under a stream of N-2 or replacing it with H2O. This on/off switching was clearly visible, relatively rapid and recyclable.

Automated summary

The trinuclear complex [Au2Ag(dppmaphen)(2)(CN)(2)]PF6 emits light when exposed to low molecular weight alcohols, likely due to interactions between the analyte and the -PPh2 group. The photoluminescence can be quenched by removing or replacing the analyte, leading to a visible, rapid, and recyclable on/off switching effect.