Optical detection/collection of toxic Cd(II) ions using cubic Ia3d aluminosilica mesocage sensors

► We developed for optical detection and selective removal of toxic CdII ion in aquatic samples. ► Cubic Ia3d mesocage sensors lead to fast access and response of probe-to-Cd(II) binding events. ► The probe surface-mount ion-sensor strips enabled sensitive removal, detection of Cd(II) ions. ► These new classes of mesocollectors exhibited long-term stability and reusability.