Dual colorimetric receptor with logic gate operations: anion induced solvatochromism

Abstract

A receptor R1 was designed and synthesised for colorimetric detection of F⁻ ions as well as Cu²⁺ ions via intramolecular charge transfer mechanism. Upon addition of F⁻ ions in dry DMSO, the color of the receptor R1 changed from pale yellow to blue. The receptor showed a unique property of solvatochromism by displaying different coloration with different solvents only in the presence of F⁻ ions, which were applied to determine the percentage composition of binary solvent mixtures. The receptor R1 was able to detect Cu²⁺ ions colorimetrically where it exhibited a color change from pale yellow to orange-red. In addition, the receptor was subjected to molecular logic gate applications, wherein it showed ‘ON–OFF’ switching operations.