High performance oxygen sensing nanofibrous membranes of Eu(III) complex/polystyrene prepared by electrospinning

In this paper, we report the synthesis, characterization, crystal structure, and photophysical properties of a Eu3+ complex of Eu(TTA)3Phen, where TTA = 2-thenoyltrifluoroacetonate, and Phen = 1,10-phenanthroline. Its elementary application for oxygen-sensing application is also investigated by doping it into a polymer matrix of polystyrene (PS). Experimental data suggest that the 3 wt% doped Eu(TTA)3Phen nanofibrous membrane exhibits a high sensitivity of 3.4 towards oxygen with a good linear relationship of R2 = 0.996. In addition, the 3 wt% doped Eu(TTA)3Phen nanofibrous membrane owns a quick response of 9 s towards molecular oxygen, along with its excellent atmosphere insensitivity and photobleaching resistance. All these results suggest that both Eu(TTA)3Phen and Eu(TTA)3Phen/PS system are promising candidates for oxygen-sensing optical sensors.

A Eu3+ complex is doped into a polymer matrix, and its elementary application for oxygen-sensing application is also investigated. Experimental data suggest that the nanofibrous membranes exhibits a highest sensitivity of 3.4 towards oxygen with a good linear relationship of R2 = 0.996.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► An Eu complex is doped into nanofibers through electrospinning technique.
► The composite fibers exhibit smooth and uniform morphology.
► A bright red emission is observed from these composite fibers.
► The oxygen sensing performance of composite fibers are investigated.
► A high sensitivity of 3.4 and a quick response of 9 s are observed.