Fluorescent probe for detection of Cu2+ using core-shell CdTe/ZnS quantum dots

Core-shell CdTe/ZnS quantum dots capped with 3-mercaptopropionic acid (MPA) were successfully synthesized in aqueous medium by hydrothermal synthesis. These quantum dots have advantages compared to traditional quantum dots with limited biological applications, high toxicity and tendency to aggregate. The concentration of Cu 2+ has a significant impact on the fluorescence intensity of quantum dots (QDs), therefore, a rapid sensitive and selective fluorescence probe has been proposed for the detection of Cu 2+ in aqueous solution. Under optimal conditions, the fluorescence intensity of CdTe/ZnS QDs was linearly proportional to the concentration of Cu 2+ in the range from 2.5 × 10 –9 M to 17.5 × 10 –7 M with the limit of 1.5 × 10 –9 M and relative standard deviation of 0.23%. The quenching mechanism is static quenching with recoveries of 97.30–102.75%. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.