A green fullerene derivative as a fluoride ion sensor

Abstract

An open-cage fullerene derivative with an enamine moiety on the rim of the orifice is prepared through a lithium chloride induced dehydration process involving an intramolecular Friedel–Crafts reaction and ring expansion rearrangement steps. The enamine moiety reacts with fluoride ions selectively and acts as the active site for fluoride ion detection.