Fluorescence Sensing Performance of Carbon Dots of Functionalization toward Sunset Yellow

Sunset yellow (FCF), a commonly used food additive, can brighten foods, but the improper amount of addition can also cause various diseases. Herein, the fluorescence sensor CDs-PTD for detecting FCF is synthesized by functionalizing carbon dots (CDs) with 3,4,9,10-pertetracarboxylic dianhydride (PTD). The prepared CDs-PTD shows excitation-independent fluorescence behavior with maximum fluorescence emission at 553 nm under 490 nm excitation and high quantum yields (21.4%). With the presence of FCF, the fluorescence of the sensor is quenched due to fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET). The CDs-PTD exhibits excellent selectivity and sensitivity toward FCF in the range of 0-180 x 10(-6) m with a low detection limit of 106.8 x 10(-9) m. In addition, the sensor is applied to the detection of FCF in beverage samples with recoveries ranging from 97% to 106%. And a portable CDs-PTD/agarose gel reagent strip is prepared for the assessment of FCF content within 15 min. The CDs-PTD can be an ideal sensor for detecting FCF in food, and provides a new idea for the detection of food additives.

Automated summary

Sunset yellow is a commonly used food additive that can brighten foods, but excessive use may have health implications. The fluorescence sensor CDs-PTD, synthesized by functionalizing carbon dots, exhibits excellent selectivity and sensitivity towards FCF, making it suitable for detecting FCF in beverage samples.