A retrievable fluorescence TURN ON sensor for sulfide anions

A benzimidazole based tripodal fluorescence derivative (L-1) is synthesized and characterized. Combining L-1 with Cu2+ shows excellent selectivity toward sulfide anions. The binding stoichiometry of L-1 with Cu2+ is established by jobs plot analysis and mass spectral evidence and the binding mode is established by synthesis of a control compound L-2. The initial fluorescence of L-1 is lost on complexation with Cu2+ and is regained in presence of sulfide. The OFF-ON behavior of L-1 is studied by Fluorescence, UV/vis and mass spectroscopic methods. (C) 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.