Ultrasonic synthesis and spectral characterization of a new blue fluorescent dendrimer as highly selective chemosensor for Fe3+ cations

A poly(propyleneamine) dendrimer, comprising four 4-(N,N-dimethylaminoethyloxy)-1,8-naphthalimide units in the dendrimer periphery has been synthesized for the first time. The new blue fluorescent dendrimer has been obtained by nucleophilic substitution of the nitro groups at C-4 position of 1,8-naphthalimide units by N,N-dimethylaminoethyloxy moiety under ultrasonic conditions. Its photophysical characteristics have been investigated in organic solvents of different polarity. The influence of different metal cations on the dendrimer fluorescence has been also investigated viewing its sensor potential.

► New blue fluorescent poly(propyleneamine) dendrimer has been synthesized under ultrasonic conditions.
► Photophysical properties have been investigated in organic solvents with different polarity.
► The new dendrimer is selective for Fe3+ ions.