A stable zinc–organic framework with luminescence detection of acetylacetone in aqueous solution

Abstract

A novel Zn–MOF {[Zn₂(XN)₂(IPA)₂]·2H₂O}_n (1) (XN = 4′-(4-pyridine)4,2′:2′,4′′-terpyridine, IPA = isophthalic acid) was obtained and structurally characterized, and it exhibited high thermostability and chemical stability in various acid/base solutions (pH = 1–14) and common organic solvents. 1 can serve as the first recyclable luminescent sensor for selectively and sensitively recognizing acetylacetone with a detection limit of 0.25 ppm in aqueous solution. Importantly, 1 can be reused at least five times without a significant decrease in the luminescence intensity. Similarly, the Zn–MOF can also detect acetylacetone gas or that in organic solvents.