Dual colorimetric receptor with logic gate operations: Anion induced solvatochromism

Abstract

A receptor R1 was designed and synthesised for colorimetric detection of F- ions as well as Cu2+ ions via intramolecular charge transfer mechanism. Upon addition of F- ions in dry DMSO, the color of the receptor R1 changed from pale yellow to blue. The receptor showed a unique property of solvatochromism by displaying different coloration with different solvents only in the presence of F- ions, which were applied to determine the percentage composition of binary solvent mixtures. The receptor R1 was able to detect Cu2+ ions colorimetrically where it exhibited a color change from pale yellow to orange-red. In addition, the receptor was subjected to molecular logic gate applications, wherein it showed 'ON-OFF' switching operations. 2014 The Royal Society of Chemistry and the Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique.