A [Cu4I] cluster based metal-organic framework to detect F− ions

•A (4, 12)-connected interpenetrating framework is synthesized by hydrothermal method.•The results show 1 can selectively sense F− ions through fluorescence quenching.•The detection limit towards F− ions is calculated to be 2.11 × 10− 6 mol/L

A new metal-organic framework, namely [Cu4I(TIPE)3].3I (1) (TIPE = tetra(3-imidazoylphenyl)ethylene), has been synthesized in the presence of sulfosalicylic acid under hydrothermal condition. Single-crystal X-ray diffraction shows that compound 1 exhibits a 2-nodal (4, 12)-connected interpenetrating network. Its luminescent property has been investigated at room temperature. Moreover, it has been used to detect halogen ions, and the experimental results show that it can selectively sense F− ions through fluorescence quenching. The detection limit towards F− ions is calculated to be 2.11 × 10− 6 mol/L.

Graphical abstractA framework [Cu4I(TIPE)3].3I based on Cu4I clusters has been synthesized by hydrothermal method. Luminescent properties of compound 1 have been investigated. It should be mentioned that this 3D cationic framework can be used as a luminescent probe to detect F− ions in the aqueous solution. The detection limit of compound 1 towards F− ions is calculated to be 2.11 × 10− 6 mol/L.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide