A novel fluorescent sensor based on triphenylamine with AIE properties for the highly sensitive detection of CN−

In this study, a novel fluorescent sensor 1 built on triphenylamine was designed for the extremely sensitive detection of trace cyanide anions. The UV absorbance and fluorescence emission intensity of sensor 1 with aggregation-induced emission (AIE) properties vary with water fraction ( f w ). In the 1% DMSO aqueous solution, sensor 1 exhibits the optimal aggregation state and fluorescence intensity , and has high selectivity and sensitivity for cyanide ions (CN − ). From formula 3δ/S, it is clear that sensor 1 has an extremely low limit of detection (LOD) for CN − (LOD = 2.95 × 10 −8  mol/L). Excellent anti-interference performance and broad pH response scope (1.0–9.0) are also advantages of sensor 1. Fluorescence spectroscopy , 1 H NMR, 13 C NMR spectroscopy, HRMS, Job's plot analysis and density functional theory calculations have been employed to elucidate the sensing mechanism between TPEB and CN − . Through colorimetry and fluorescence approach, the sensor 1 test strip can easily detect CN − . Therefore, the novel sensor 1 provides a broad application prospect for detecting toxic environmental pollutants.