Flexible and robust Eu/cellulose acetate nanofibrous membrane for the rapid detection of Hg2+ with ultra-stable recycle capability

Heavy metal pollutants seriously threaten people’s health. A sensitive, selective, and responsive method for the detection of heavy metal ions is necessary. Herein, flexible robust europium complex/cellulose acetate nanofiber (Eu/CA NF) luminescent membranes were prepared by the electrospinning method. The tensile length of this nanofiber membrane, which can be used in a variety of force scenarios, can be increased by 130% of its original length. These Eu/CA NFs showed unique specificity and good sensitivity in detecting Hg 2+ with its low limit of detection (LOD) of 3.09 μM and a specific recognition of Hg 2+ with a quenching rate of 97.32%. In addition, Eu/CA NF nanofibers were recyclable even after 50 times washing treatment. This study provides a convenient and effective super-sensitive detection thought for a trace amount of Hg 2+ in various water environments.