Bis-BODIPY linked-triazole based on catechol core for selective dual detection of Ag+ and Hg2+

Herein, we introduced a new chemosensor, bis-BODIPY linked-triazole based on catechol (BODIPY-OO) prepared by bridging two units of BODIPY fluorophore/triazole binding group with a catechol unit. A solution of this compound displayed 4- and 2-fold enhancements in fluorescence intensity after adding a mole equivalent amount of Ag+ and Hg2+ ions in methanol media, respectively. H-1 NMR titrations of BODIPY-OO with Ag+ and Hg2+ suggested that the triazole was involved in the recognition process. BODIPY-OO showed high sensitivity toward Ag+ and Hg2+ over other metal ions with detection limits of 0.45 mu M and 1 mu M, respectively. It can also distinguish Hg2+ from Ag+ by addition of an EDTA. This compound can therefore be employed as practical fluorescent probe for monitoring the presence of Ag+ and Hg2+ ions.

Automated summary

The new chemosensor BODIPY-OO showed high sensitivity towards Ag+ and Hg2+ ions in methanol media, and can distinguish Hg2+ from Ag+. It can be used as a practical fluorescent probe for monitoring the presence of Ag+ and Hg2+ ions.