Selective detection of 2,4,6-trinitrophenol based on a fluorescent nanoscale bis(8-hydroxyquinoline) metal complex

Talanta. 2016 Apr 1:150:319-23. doi: 10.1016/j.talanta.2015.12.053. Epub 2015 Dec 21.

Abstract

The reliable and accurate detection of explosives such as 2,4,6-trinitrophenol (TNP) and 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) is in high demand for homeland security and public safety. Although extremely high sensitivity towards TNT has been demonstrated, detection of TNP remains a challenge. In this work, a fluorescent nanoscale complex composed of bis(8-hydroxyquinoline) and Al(3+) ions has been prepared, characterized and applied in detection of TNP. This complex exhibits the ability to sense the nitro explosive TNP via a fluorescence quenching mechanism with high selectivity. A simple paper test system for the rapid monitoring of TNP was also investigated. The results show that Bhq-Al is a quite ideal sensing material for trace-level detection of TNP.

Keywords: Bis(8-hydroxyquinoline)-Aluminium; Explosive; Fluorescence; Inner filter effect; Sensor.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Aluminum / chemistry*
  • Chemistry Techniques, Analytical / instrumentation*
  • Coordination Complexes / chemistry*
  • Explosive Agents / analysis
  • Explosive Agents / chemistry
  • Fluorescent Dyes / chemistry*
  • Hydrogen-Ion Concentration
  • Hydroxyquinolines / chemistry*
  • Metal Nanoparticles / chemistry
  • Nanocomposites / chemistry*
  • Picrates / analysis*
  • Picrates / chemistry
  • Spectrometry, Fluorescence

Substances

  • Coordination Complexes
  • Explosive Agents
  • Fluorescent Dyes
  • Hydroxyquinolines
  • Picrates
  • picric acid
  • Aluminum