Boric-acid-functionalized luminescent sensor for detection of chromate ions in aqueous solution

Abstract The development of highly fluorescent materials for detection of environmental contaminants like chromate anions (Cr2O72−) is of great importance. Here, boric acid-coated Eu(III) metal–organic framework (Eu-MOF-B) was successfully synthesized using one pot hydrothermal conditions and further extensively characterized by several spectroscopic and microscopic techniques. The fluorescence spectroscopy investigations indicated the dual-fluorescence emission along with high stability in water. In case of presence of Cr2O72− ion in aqueous samples, the red fluorescence of Eu-MOF-B is selectively quenched but blue fluorescence is enhanced. Hence, the complex could be a potential fluorescent sensor for sensitive detection of Cr2O72− with a low limit of detection of 0.17 ppm.