An AIE active probe for specific sensing of Hg2+ based on linear conjugated bis-Schiff base

A novel aggregation-induced emission (AIE) active linear conjugated bis-Schiff base compound, (E)-N,N'-bis(4-(Z)-2-(4-butoxypheny1)-1-cyanovinylpheny1)-1,4-benzenebismethaneimine (4) containing cc-cyanostilbene unit was designed, synthesized and characterized. The distinct change of color and/or fluorescence emission of 4 +Hg2+ in tetrahydrofuran (THF) and THF/water solution provided a simple and easy discrimination way for Hg2+ by "naked eye" or using a UV lamp. The aggregating patterns of 4 were applied to explain the mechanism of sensing. The as-synthesized sample showed comparatively high selectivity and sensitivity to Hg2+ through fluorescence "turn-on" response with a low detection limit (3.4 x 10(-9) M in THF, 2.4 x 10(-7) M in THF/water). The results implied that the as-made sample could effectively act as Hg2+ sensor not only in THF and THF/water but in living cells. (C) 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.