A novel cellulose nanocrystal-based antifungal aerogel for fluorometric detection and efficient removal of Cr(VI)

A novel multifunctional aerogel (MFA) was conveniently fabricated by cross-linking cellulose nanocrystals and polyethyleneimine capped-silver clusters for fluorometric sensing and efficient removal of Cr(VI). This novel MFA was characterized by TEM, XRD, and FT-IR, which show a high adsorption capacity for Cr (VI) (maximum at 589.68 mg/g). X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy confirmed that redox, electrostatic interaction, and chelation account for the high Cr(VI) adsorption. Moreover, MFA had excellent antifungal effects on fungi such as Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus niger for as long as 10 days, prolonging its life cycle in the environment. More importantly, by using a smartphone, Cr(VI) concentrations over the range of 0–400 mg/L were effectively tested, with a limit of detection of 5 mg/L, providing the convenience for on-site detecting samples. This novel MFA shows promising potential for mass production and environmental treatment.