A highly sensitive fluorescent probe based on functionalised ionic liquids for timely detection of trace Hg2+ and CH3Hg+ in food

A novel fluorescent probe was fabricated using fluorescein-based ionic liquids (ILs) to effectively achieve rapid and accurate detection of Hg 2+ and CH 3 Hg + in food. A probe developed by addition of modified fluorescein into the functionalised ILs presented a promising sensitivity toward Hg 2+ and CH 3 Hg + at concentrations of 0.4 and 60 nM, respectively. In addition, the novel probe could achieve visual and timely detection of Hg 2+ and CH 3 Hg + by the naked eyes at concentrations of 0.1 and 1 μM, respectively. The probe could also overcome the interference of potential ions and common organic ligands and detect Hg 2+ and CH 3 Hg + in real food samples, such as green tea and liquor. The probe could be converted into a paper-based sensor to visually detect Hg 2+ and CH 3 Hg + at levels as low as 10 nM.