Multifunctional Ln-MOF luminescent probe displaying superior capabilities for highly selective sensing of Fe3+ and Al3+ ions and nitrotoluene

A pillar-like 3D lanthanide-organic framework (Eu-MOF) with opposite chirality was assembled according to previous report and fully characterized. The Eu-MOF exhibits excellent luminescence and structural stability in the aqueous solution or other organic solvents and good pH-independent luminescence stability in the pH range of 3–12. It is important to point out that the as-synthesized Eu-MOF can be developed as a highly selective and sensitive luminescent probe to rapidly detect Fe 3+ (detection limit, 0.39 μM) and Al 3+ (detection limit, 0.084 μM) from mixed metal ions , which can be explained by different response mechanisms and the color change are visible to the naked eyes under UV-lamp. In addition, it also exhibits highly sensitive for nitrobenzene (NB) (detection limit, 0.013 μM). Considering the obvious spectral response and low limit detection, the Eu-MOF can be employed as a promising multi-functional luminescent sensor for sensing metal ions and small organic molecules in the future.