A novel supramolecular AIE π-gel for fluorescence detection and separation of metal ions from aqueous solution.

Wei, Tai-Bao; Zhang, Qin-Peng; Fan, Yan-Qing; Mao, Peng-Peng; Wang, Jiao; Guan, Xiao-Wen; Zhang, You-Ming; Yao, Hong et al. · Soft Matter · 2019

basic_science · Level V

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Abstract

A novel supramolecular aggregation induced emission (AIE) π-gel (ONT) was constructed by using a functionalized trimesic amide (TCP) molecule assembled with a bis-pyridine functionalized naphthalene diimide (ND) molecule using a non-covalent interaction. The ONT showed strong AIE at 468 nm. Furthermore, the ONT could detect and adsorb ferric (Fe<sup>3+</sup>) or cupric (Cu<sup>2+</sup>) ions from water. Meanwhile, a thin film based on supramolecular AIE π-gel ONT was prepared, which could be used as a fluorescent security display material for detecting Fe<sup>3+</sup> or Cu<sup>2+</sup>. Thus, the AIE π-gel ONT shows potential for practical applications in efficient multi-analyte detection and separation and as a fluorescent display material.