Converting an intensity-based sensor to a ratiometric sensor: luminescence colour switching of an Ir/Eu dyad upon binding of a V-series chemical warfare agent simulant

Interaction of the V-series chemical warfare agent simulant ‘VO’ with Eu(III) results in selective quenching of the red Eu-based emission component from a dual-luminescent (blue/red) Ir(III)/Eu(III) dyad, resulting in a colour change in the luminescence from red to blue in the presence of the simulant.