A fluorescent probe for the determination of Ce4+ in aqueous media

A rhodamine-based probe bearing an N,N-dimethylaniline unit was developed as a fluorescent chemodosimeter for Ce4+ in aqueous media. Importantly, the sensor can selectively respond to Ce4+ over other commonly coexistent metal ions (such as La3+, Ce3+, Pr3+, Nd3+, Sm3+, Eu3+, Gd3+, Er3+, Tb3+, Ho3+, Tm3+, Yb3+, Lu3+, Y3+) in aqueous media with a rapid response time. The system, which utilizes an irreversible Ce4+-promoted oxidation reaction, responds instantaneously at room temperature with linear proportionality to the amount of Ce4+.

A selective rhodamine-based probe was developed as a fluorescent chemodosimeter for Ce4+ in aqueous media.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► A new rhodamine derived fluorescent probe has been synthesized.
► The probe offers highly selective and sensitive detection of Ce4+ ions over common related ions.
► The probe undergoes an oxidative cyclization and a concomitant oxidative ring opening process upon reaction with the Ce4+, resulting in both the color and turn-on fluorescence changes.