Exploring the hidden potential of a benzothiazole-based Schiff-base exhibiting AIE and ESIPT and its activity in pH sensing, intracellular imaging and ultrasensitive & selective detection of aluminium (Al³⁺)

Abstract

In this article, we tried to redefine the unexplored potential of a benzothiazole type of Schiff-base (OM), which was identified as an AIE-active molecule that exhibits excited-state intramolecular proton transfer (ESIPT). Interestingly, this compound shows ultra-sensitivity and selectivity in the detection of Al(iii) (12 pM; 456 ppt). The OM was capable of pH sensing and was also tested for internalization in cancerous cells for intracellular imaging. Computational modeling was performed and the results were in good agreement with the experimental UV-Vis spectrum and the energy gap obtained in basic and acidic media.