Anti AIE single molecular fluorescent switch for detection of heavy metal ions

Abstract

Fluorescent probes for heavy metal ions are an efficient, low-cost, on-site operable detection method, which have been widely applied in both environmental and biomedical monitoring. Herein, we present a single-molecule anti AIE fluorescent sensor for the detection of heavy metal ions based on fold/unfold conformational transition of AIE molecular modules in single molecule triggered by coordination of heavy metal ions. The fluorescent probe is able to detect a range of heavy metal ions at concentrations well below “Hygienic Standard for Drinking Water”, and is expected to be used as a fluorescent probe with a new detection mechanism for heavy metal ion to apply for environmental detection or bio-monitoring applications.