Solvent dependent ESIPT-based probe for optical recognition of Zr(iv) and Zn(ii)

Abstract

A single crystal X-ray structurally characterized bis-imine derivative (DEC) having N, O donors efficiently recognizes Zr(IV) in EtOH–H₂O (1 : 4, v/v) and Zn(II) in DMSO–H₂O (1 : 5, v/v) media through the generation of intense green and blue fluorescence, respectively. The LODs for Zr(IV) and Zn(II) are 19.43 nM and 23.46 nM, respectively. The corresponding binding constants are 2.94 × 10⁵ M⁻¹ and 1.97 × 10⁵ M⁻¹. The recognition is also feasible in the solid state and on paper strips. The said cations have been analysed in real samples.