A simple fluorescence turn-on chemosensor based on Schiff-base for Hg2+-selective detection

A simple and effective Schiff-base fluorescent chemosensor L was synthesized, which showed highly selective and sensitive detection of Hg2+ ions in CH3CN/H2O (9:1, v/v) solution over a wide pH range. Sensor L exhibited a specific 'turn-on' fluorescent response to Hg2+ with a low detection limit of 2.268 x 10(-8) M. The complex solution of L with Hg2+ ion exhibited reversibility with EDTA and regenerated free ligand for further Hg2+ sensing. The results implied that sensor L could effectively act as Hg2+ sensor in aqueous CH3CN media. (C) 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.