A simple sensitive ESIPT on-off fluorescent sensor for selective detection of Al3+ in water

A highly selective and sensitive fluorescent sensor for Al3+ has been developed. The sensor shows great fluorescence turn- on upon binding Al3+ in complete water, giving strong blue emission. In addition, the sensor's turn- on exhibits excellent selectivity to the Al3+ cation, with only a slight interference from Zn2+. These findings suggest that the developed Al3+ sensor could be a useful molecular probe for practical applications.