Hexaphenylbenzene-based fluorescent aggregates for ratiometric detection of cyanide ions at nanomolar level: Set–reset memorized sequential logic device

Abstract

A hexaphenylbenzene-based receptor 3 has been synthesized that forms a fluorescent spherical aggregate in mixed aqueous media due to its aggregation-induced emission enhancement attributes. These fluorescent spherical aggregates show ratiometric response toward cyanide ions via nucleophilic addition and undergo deaggregation to form smaller nanoaggregates. In addition, the solution-coated paper strips of 3 can detect cyanide ions in the range of ∼2.6 ng/cm², thus, providing a simple, portable, and low-cost method for detection of cyanide ions in aqueous media. Receptor 3 also behaves as a set–reset memorized sequential logic circuit with chemical inputs of CN^– ions and trifluoroacetic acid or H⁺ (pH ≤ 3).