Characterization and morphology control of poly(p-phenylenediamine) nanofibers: A novel, simple and highly selective fluorescent probe for thiols

In this paper, the poly(p-phenylenediamine) (PpPD) nanofibers were synthesized via chemical oxidation polymerization of p-phenylenediamine (pPD) monomers by (NH4)2S2O8 (APS) at room temperature. The control of morphological was discussed with scanning electron microscope (SEM). It is spectacular that the PpPD nanofibers show high-efficiency effects in enhancing the fluorescence intensity of thiols. 1H NMR study showed that the possible mechanism is the hydrogen bonds between polymer and thiols. This paper also analyzes the mechanism of fluorescence synergistic effect of the PpPD with the theoretical calculations. This new method may be applied to the actual test. The measuring method is simple, efficient, pollution-free, low-cost and sensitive.

Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► Poly(p-phenylenediamine) (PpPD) nanofiber colloid is prepared through a simple process.
► The polymer colloid has a strong selective adsorption ability to thiols.
► The fluorescence enhancement phenomenon is interesting and has high-efficiency.
► 1HNMR study showed that the possible mechanism is the hydrogen bonds between polymer and thiols.
► The mechanism of fluorescence synergistic effect of the PpPD is explained by theoretical calculations.