Several fluorescent probes based on hemicyanine for the detection of SO2 derivatives

Abstract

It's of great importance to detect SO₂ and its derivatives (bisulfite/sulfite) because of their harmful effects on the environment and human health. In this work, three probes based on hemicyanine were designed and synthesized to detect SO₂ derivatives in aqueous solution (containing 10% DMSO) through a 1,4-addition reaction. All probes displayed rapid and selective responses toward SO₂ derivatives, and could quantitatively detect HSO₃⁻ with detection limits of 8.7 μM, 6.5 μM and 4.0 μM, respectively. Meanwhile, the color of the probe solution changed immediately (within 10 s), which provides a simple way to recognize bisulfite with the naked eye. Finally, visual detection of SO₂ gas has been successfully realized.