Surfactant free platinum nanocluster as fluorescent probe for the selective detection of Fe (III) ions in aqueous medium

We report the utilisation of platinum nanocluster (Pt NC) as a fluorescent sensor. The sensor displays an excellent selectivity and sensitivity towards Fe (III) ions in aqueous solution. The possible mechanism for the sensing was analyzed by photophysical studies and the results showed that the quenching of the NC by Fe3+ follow predominantly a static mechanism. The change in luminescent property occurs due to the specific interaction of the NCs and Fe3+ ions. We have also shown that this Pt NC can be utilized for the detection of Fe3+ in the human blood sample.