A benzimidazole-based fluorescent sensor for Cu2+ and its complex with a phosphate anion formed through a Cu2+ displacement approach

A benzimidazole-based imine linked receptor was synthesized for fluorescent recognition of Cu2+ in a CH3CN/H2O (8:2, v/v) solvent system. The receptor offers an opportunity for the selective estimation of Cu2+ in the presence of another metal ion at equimolar concentration. The Cu2+ complex with the receptor acted as a sensor for a phosphate anion, and the phosphate recognition event restored the fluorescence intensity of the receptor.