A bifunctional chromogenic and fluorogenic probe for F− and Al3+ based on azo-benzimidazole conjugate

A versatile bifunctional probe has been reported for selective individual detection of Al3+ and F− through “turn-on” chromogenic and fluorogenic dual modes. The photonic behaviors of probe upon addition of analyte have been determined using UV-vis absorption, fluorescence emission, quantum yield and fluorescence life-time measurement. Density functional theory calculations have been performed to establish the nature of interaction between probe and Al3+/F−.