A colorimetric chemosensor for fluoride ions based on an indigo derivative

• A novel indigo derivative (1) was synthesized and characterized.
• Single crystal analysis shows that compound 1 is a planar molecule.
• Its positive response to fluoride ions can be directly detected by the ‘naked eyes’.

A novel indigo derivative (1) was synthesized and fully characterized. Its structure, confirmed by X-ray crystallography, showed that compound 1 is a planar molecule. Interestingly, compound 1 only has response to fluoride ions among six different anions (F−, Cl−, Br−, I−, AcO−, and HSO4−) in an anhydrous methylene chloride solution and this response can be detected by the ‘naked eyes’.

The positive response of indigo derivative to fluoride ions was studied in dichloromethane solution.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slide