Sensor potential of 1,8-naphthalimide and its dyeing ability of cotton fabric

A new 4-(2-N,N-dimethylamino)ethylamino-N-2-hydroxyethyl-1,8-naphthalimide has been synthesized. The photophysical characteristics have been determined in aqueous and acetonitrile solutions. The influence of metal cations (Ni2+, Zn2+, and Cu2) and protons on the fluorescence intensity has been studied to evaluate the capacities of the newly synthesized 1,8-naphthalimide as a fluorescence sensor. The 1,8-naphthalimide dye has been chemically bonded to a cotton textile fabric in order to obtain a heterogeneous fluorescent sensor for detecting of metal cations and protons.

► The synthesis and functional properties of a 1,8-naphthalimide have been described.
► Modification of cotton fabrics with chloroacetyl chloride is investigated.
► 1,8-naphthalimide forms covalent bond with the modified cotton fabrics.