A host–guest approach to ratiometric pH sensing using upconversion nanoparticles

Abstract

Herein, we present a pH-sensitive nanoplatform based on Tm³⁺/Yb³⁺ co-doped upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) functionalized with β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) and a pH-responsive nitrobenzoxadiazole dye modified with adamantane (NBD-Ad). The host–guest interaction between β-CD on the UCNP surface and Ad on NBD-Ad enables a stable, water-dispersible ratiometric pH sensor. Upon 980 nm excitation, the UCNPs emit in the UV and blue regions, which overlap with the pH-dependent absorption of NBD-Ad. This overlap induces selective quenching of UV and blue emissions via inner filter effect (IFE). The red emission (650 nm) remains stable and is used as an internal reference for ratiometric sensing. The sensor shows a ratiometric response (blue/red) over a pH range of 8.0–11.0 with high reproducibility. The nanoplatform demonstrates excellent reusability and selectivity even in the presence of interferents.