Sequential recognition of Hg2+ and I− based on a novel BODIPY-salen sensor

Abstract A novel multifunctional sensor based on the ‘privileged ligand’ salen scaffold conjugated with BODIPY was designed and synthesized. This conjugate displays a sequential recognition of Hg 2+ and I − with high selectivity and sensitivity via formation of three-component ensembles.These new approaches have been successfully applied for the detection of their corresponding targets in Haihe River with acceptable recovery.