The soft interactions of aminated SiO2 nanoparticles with fluorescent partners: a multi-functional sensing platform with a signal amplification effect

Abstract

Signal amplification, known as the “molecular wire” effect, is greatly desirable and achieved by the electrostatic interactions of aminated SiO₂ nanoparticles (SiO₂–NH₂) with acidic fluorescent partners (NBTA). This explored sensing platform exhibited a multi-responsive capability toward external stimuli, including that of TFA/Et₃N, chloroauric acid, as well as the explosive compound PA.