Hydrothermal synthesis of functionalized CdS nanoparticles and their application as fluorescence probes in the determination of uracil and thymine

A novel, sensitive, and convenient method for the determination of uracil and thymine by functionalized CdS nanoparticles (NPs) was proposed. CdS NPs were prepared by hydrothermal process and modified with thioglycollic acid (TGA) in aqueous solution. The fluorescence intensity of functionalized CdS NPs was quenched in the presence of uracil or thymine. Under optimal conditions, the relative fluorescence intensity (F0/F) was proportional to the concentration in the range of 9.0×10−6-1.0×10−4 mol/L for uracil (r=0.9985) and 8.8×10−7-1.5×10−4 mol/L for thymine (r=0.9960). The corresponding detection limits were 9.6×10−7 mol/L and 3.2×10−7 mol/L, respectively. In addition, the possible quenching mechanism was also discussed.

► Nano-CdS fluorescence probes were synthesized with good optical properties. ► Uracil and thymine were successfully detected by CdS fluorescence probes. ► Wide linear ranges and low detection limits were obtained.