Selective and visual detection of triphosgene by a red turn-on fluorescent probe

Triphosgene has been successfully and widely applied in many fields such as medicine, pesticides, spices, dyes and polymer materials. Though triphosgene itself is low toxic, the potential presence of nucleophiles would lead to the release of cracked gas phosgene which is highly toxic and irritant if triphosgene was inhaled into the lungs, resulting in more serious and sustained respiratory distress. The risk of inhalation poisoning is especially acute, because phosgene content can be mortal prior to its smell being recognizable. Hence, triphosgene may pose a threat to public health and security due to its intentional use in terrorist activities and accidental leakage in industrial accidents. There have been few special fluorescent probe developed specifically for triphosgene. Therefore, it is urgent to develop an efficient and reliable method to detect and identify triphosgene. The macroscopical red color has the function of stimulating people's senses and emotions. A visual red colour and fluorescent assay method based on a rhodamine dye for triphosgene was developed with high selectivity and sensitivity. Furthermore, the probe RDM-670 loaded test strips are prepared and display practical utility in sensitive fluorescent detection of triphosgene. • A visual red colour and fluorescent assay method based on a rhodamine dye for triphosgene was developd. • The probe exhibits highly selective and sensitive response to triphosgene. • The probe loaded test strips are prepared and display practical utility in sensitive fluorescent detection of triphosgene.