BODIPY dyes functionalized with 2-(2-dimethylaminophenyl)ethanol moieties as selective OFF–ON fluorescent chemodosimeters for the nerve agent mimics DCNP and DFP

Abstract

Two OFF–ON fluorescent chemodosimeters based on a BODIPY core for the detection of nerve agent mimics have been synthesized. Their reactivity towards diethylcyanophosphonate (DCNP) and diisopropylfluorophosphate (DFP) has been tested in organic and aqueous phase. These chemodosimeters selectively detect the nerve agent mimics with good LODs. The chemodosimeters hold their sensing properties on solid supports, allowing the preparation of a hand held sensing kit. The sensing in solid–liquid phase has been demonstrated. The X-ray structure of compound 2 has been resolved.