Turn-on fluorescence sensing of cyanide ions in aqueous solution

A sensitive fluorescent probe, 2,2′-bisbenzimidazole (L), for CN− has been developed. This structurally simple receptor displays great selectivity for the cyanide anion over other common inorganic anions in an aqueous environment. In addition, further study demonstrates the lower detection of the fluorescence response of the sensor to CN− is in 10−9 mol/L range. Thus, the present probe should be applicable as a practical system for the monitoring of cyanide concentrations in aqueous samples.

Graphical abstractThe fluorescent probe 2,2′-bisbenzimidazole (L) can be synthesized easily and rapidly, with good selectivity and sensitivity for CN− in aqueous solution.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide