An aldehyde-appended salamo-type turn-on optical probe: Rapid detection of trace cyanide ions by structural conversion program

In this work, an aldehyde-appended salamo-type optical probe AA-TNS was synthesized for high-efficiency detection of cyanide ions. Spectral experiments indicated that the probe AA-TNS exhibits a proportional fluorescence response to cyanide ions before/after the detection reaction, accompanied by a remarkable fluorescence turn-on. The probe AA-TNS followed an induced dehydrogenation sensing mechanism, with fast response time and excellent sensitivity. Most importantly, the theoretical calculation revealed that the molecular structure has undergone a transformation from a closed to an extended form, which may be one of the important reasons for the luminescence. This was slightly different from the previously reported probe molecules, which provides some enlightenment for future exploration of salamo-type optical probes. The superior recyclability of the probe molecule was also proved by spectral data and solution fluorescence. Moreover, the probe AA-TNS could directly distinguish cyanide ions in liquid environment and solid-state contact.

Automated summary

In this work, an aldehyde-appended salamo-type optical probe AA-TNS was synthesized for efficient detection of cyanide ions. Spectral experiments showed that the probe exhibited proportional fluorescence response to cyanide ions and followed an induced dehydrogenation sensing mechanism. Theoretical calculation revealed the molecular structure transformation as a potential reason for luminescence. The recyclability of the probe and its ability to distinguish cyanide ions in liquid and solid-state environments were also demonstrated.