A dual-site fluorescent probe for sensitive detection of mercury(II)

A dual-site fluorescent probe (Probe 1) was developed to detect mercury(II). Probe 1 detected mercury(II) concentrations in the range 0–10 μM, with a detection limit of 21.6 nM. In addition, as the concentration of mercury(II) increased, the solution of Probe 1 changed to yellow-green, which was observed under a 365 nm UV lamp. Furthermore, the test paper of Probe 1 was gradually turns yellow in response to different concentrations of Hg2+ in natural light. And The luminescent intensity of test paper was gradually increased under 365 nm UV lamp. This work shows that Probe 1 can be employed as a tool for the detecting of mercury(II).