Fabrication of a Hydrazone-Based Al(III)-Selective “Turn-On” Fluorescent Chemosensor and Ensuing Potential Recognition of Picric Acid

Abstract

A hydrazone-based <i>N</i>'1,<i>N</i>'3-bis((E)-4-(diethylamino)-₂ ^-hydroxybenzylidene)isophthalohydrazide (<b>NDHIPH</b>), has been synthesized, characterized, and assessed for its highly selective and sensitive (limit of detection, 2.53 nM) response toward Al(III) via fluorescence enhancement in 95% aqueous medium. All experimental results of analytical studies are in good consonance with the theoretical studies performed. Further, this <b>NDHIPH</b>-Al(III) ensemble is used for selective and sensitive (12.15 nM) detection of explosive picric acid (PA) via fluorescence quenching. This reversible behavior of <b>NDHIPH</b> toward Al(III) and PA is used for the creation of a molecular logic gate.