Colorimetric and fluorescent sensing of multi metal ions and anions by salicylaldimine based receptors

► Receptor R1 and R2 are prepared by a microwave-assisted single step condensation reaction. ► They sense the anions and cations with significant colorimetric, spectral and fluorescent response. ► In the receptor R2, presence of NO2 group enhances the hydrogen bonding event in anion sensing. ► R1 can sense Cu2+ selectively in the presence of F− ion is confirmed by the competing studies.