A novel BODIPY-Schiff base-based colorimetric and fluorometric dosimeter for Hg2+, Fe3+ and Au3+

Abstract

A novel Schiff base-based multi-target dosimeter for Hg²⁺, Fe³⁺ and Au³⁺ has been designed and synthesized. Upon addition of Hg²⁺, Fe³⁺ and Au³⁺ to the aqueous solution of compound BODIPY-TRIA, the dosimeter gave a rapid fluorescence response and displayed an obvious fluorescence enhancement with a blue-shift. Meanwhile, a sharp color change from purple to pale yellow occurred, which was readily detected by the naked eye. The hydrolysis of the Schiff base promoted by Hg²⁺, Fe³⁺ and Au³⁺ has been discussed, and the possible mechanism was confirmed by ¹H NMR and MS studies. The dosimeter showed high sensitivity (10 nM for Au³⁺), good stability, and excellent selectivity for Hg²⁺, Fe³⁺ and Au³⁺ with interference by other metal ions.