A fluorescence sensor based on water-soluble pillar[5]arene and acridine hydrochloride for the detection of pesticide molecules

The interaction between pyridine pillar[5]arene (PyP5) and water-soluble acridine derivatives (AC) was explored using UV–Vis absorption spectroscopy, infrared spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, and 1H NMR spectroscopy. The findings revealed that a 1:1 inclusion complex of AC@PyP5 was formed when AC entered the cavity of PyP5. A supramolecular fluorescence sensor, AC@PyP5, was developed to detect common pesticide molecules. The sensor demonstrated selectivity for hymexazol and ethiofencarb. The recognition mechanism of the AC@PyP5 probe for hymexazol and ethiofencarb was further investigated using fluorescence spectroscopy and 1H NMR spectroscopy, leading to a proposed mode of action. Consequently, a fluorescent method for detecting these two pesticide molecules using a single system was established.