Fluorescence “Turn-On” chemosensor for the selective detection of beryllium

A new fluorogenic method for selective and sensitive determination of beryllium using 2,6-diphenyl-4-benzo-9-crown-3-pyrane (DBCP) was developed. The proposed fluorescent probe undergoes fluorescent emission intensity enhancement upon binding to beryllium ions in MeOH/H2O (70:30, v/v) solution. The fluorescence enhancement of DBCP is attributed to a 1:1 complex formation between DBCP and Be2+ ion, which has been utilized as the basis for selective detection of Be2+ ion. With the optimum condition described, the fluorescence enhancement at 531 nm was linear to the concentration of beryllium in the range of 1.6 × 10−8–1.6 × 10−7 M and a detection limit of 1.5 × 10−9 M. The fluorescent probe exhibits high selectivity for Be2+ ion over the other common mono, di- and trivalent cations.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► New fluorogenic method for selective determination of Be2+ is introduced. ► A new fluorescence “Turn-On” chemosensor was used. ► The linear range is 1.6 × 10−8–1.6 × 10−7 M and detection limit is 1.5 × 10−9 M.