A novel 2D metal–organic framework probe: a highly sensitive and visual fluorescent sensor for Al3+, Cr3+ and Fe3+ ions

A novel 2D MOF Tb-DBA was constructed. Tb-DBA could detect Al 3+ , Cr 3+ and Fe 3+ ions rapidly, sensitively, selectively, reversibly and visually. Tb-DBA represents a promising material for the quick detection of metal ions in aqueous solution.