Two novel Se/O mixed-donor molecular probes based on ferrocene and anthracene units

• Two mixed donor Se/O multichannel sensors were obtained.
• Only Cu2 + ions switch-on fluorescence intensity.
• Cu2 + induces the oxidation of ferrocene unit and then form stable Cu+ complex.

Two mixed-donor molecules containing ferrocene and anthracene moiety, 1 and 2, have been designed and synthesized as potential multichannel probes for transition metal cations. They displayed switch-on fluorescence intensity only with Cu2 + among the metal ions examined. Electrochemistry and UV–vis spectra studies showed that Cu2 + induces the oxidation of ferrocene unit and then forms stable Cu+ complex.

Two mixed-donor multichannel molecular probes were synthesized. They displayed switch-on fluorescence intensity with Cu2+, due to Cu2+ oxidation of ferrocene unit and the formation of stable Cu+ complex.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slide