Supramolecular assemblies of Zn(II) complexes with a D–π–A ligand for sensing specific organic molecules

It is an attractive but challenging proposition to develop effective fluorescent sensors for detecting specific organic compounds. In this study, we designed and synthesized three Zn(II) complexes, namely [Zn(3N3PY)₂](NO₃)₂·3.5CH₃OH (1), [Zn(3N3PY)(BIN)]·1.5DMF (2) and [Zn(3N3PY)(BIN)_0.5(HCOO)] (3) (H₂BIN = 2,2′-biisonicotinic acid, HCOO⁻ = formate), using a D–π–A ligand 4′-(4-(1H-1,2,4-triazol-1-yl)phenyl)-2,2′:6′,2′′-terpyridine (3N3PY) with mononuclear, one-dimensional (1D) chain and dinuclear structures, respectively. The three-dimensional (3D) supramolecular assemblies were achieved by the linkage of the Zn(II) complexes through π–π and hydrogen bonding interactions. The assemblies demonstrated intense luminescence and exhibited an excellent ability for sensing specific organic molecules namely 2,4,6-trinitrophenol (TNP), 4-methylbenzaldehyde (4-MB) and decabromodiphenyl oxide (DBDPO).