A cyanide-sensing detector in aqueous solution based on anion–π interaction-driven electron transfer

Abstract

A “turn on” fluorescent and colorimetric sensor, HAT(CN)₆, was developed for the light-up detection of cyanide. It was implemented through its strong anion–π interaction, inducing thermal CN⁻ → HAT(CN)₆ electron transfer, to give the dianion product [HAT(CN)₆]²⁻, which exhibits unexpected fluorescence. The sensor shows high selectivity, rapid response and a low detection limit towards CN⁻ in aqueous solution, hence indicating its enormous potential in practical applications.