Synthesis of benzylidene amino arylpyridinones and their AIE studies: dual metal sensing of Fe3+ and Hg2+

Abstract

Our research journey began with the successful synthesis and reporting of benzylidene amino aryl-pyridinone derivatives (4a–e) from corresponding pyranones. This process was conducted with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring the highest quality of results. These derivatives, treated with benzaldehyde and hydrazine hydrate under these controlled conditions, yielded an excellent yield. The benzylidene amino aryl-pyridinone, which contains electron-donor and acceptor groups, exhibited remarkable photophysical properties. We further evaluated the changes in the fluorescence properties of compound 4e in the presence of various cations. Our findings revealed compound 4e can be a highly sensitive and selective chemosensor for detecting Fe³⁺ and Hg²⁺ in DMSO solvent. The aggregated compound A-4e detected Fe³⁺ and Hg²⁺ with LODs of 1.03 × 10⁻⁷ M⁻¹ and 1.71 × 10⁻⁷ M⁻¹, which were lower than those in recent sensor reports. Presenting a novel approach to metal sensing will surely interest the scientific community. The application of compound 4e for the determination of Fe³⁺ and Hg²⁺ in spiked samples in different environmental water samples showed a satisfactory result with good recovery.