Fluorescent chemosensors for Zn2+ ions based on flavonol derivatives

• The reported chemosensors based on flavonol show fluorometric response for Zn2+ ions with highly selective and sensitive.
• 4-fold enhancement of the fluorescence intensity was observed with zinc ion.
• The detection process gives rise to a color change, which could easily be detected by the naked eye.
• Successfully examined the reversibility of Chemosensor–Zn(II) complexation.

New fluorescence chemosensors (CS1 and CS2) based on flavonol derivatives were successfully synthesized and characterized. Complexation behaviour of sensors towards zinc and other tested metals have been studied using UV–vis and fluorescence spectrometric methods. These reveal selective detection towards Zn2+ ion, along with fluorometric response. Also, those serve as a highly selective chemodosimeter for Zn2+ at neutral pH with naked-eye detection and successfully examined the reversibility of chemosensor–Zn(II) complexation.

The color variations and binding mode of a chemosensor in the presence of Zn2+ ions under a UV lamp.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slide