A novel bifunctional fluorescent and colorimetric probe for detection of mercury and fluoride ions

Abstract A fluorescent and colorimetric probe L1 based on a simple coumarin derivative for detection of Hg 2+ and F − ions was developed. Upon addition of Hg 2+ and F − ions, L1 underwent desulfurization and desilylation, respectively, to induce marked increase in the fluorescence intensity and sharp color change from light yellow to dark purple and light brown, respectively. Probe L1 could be used for sensing and for quantitative measurement of Hg 2+ and F − ions by both UV–vis and fluorescence spectra. The bifunctional probe exhibited a high selectivity over other competitive cations and anions and could be used in both organic and aqueous media over a wide pH range.