Influence of structure and solvatation on photophysical characteristics of meso-substituted boron dipyrrins in solution and bulk hybrid materials.

Here we report recent studies of pH and polarity fluorescent molecular sensorics involving range of 4-bora-3a,4a-diaza-s-indacene (BODIPY) derivatives. Photophysical characteristics of the dyes were investigated in liquid solutions and in bulk materials, doped to sol-gel silicon dioxide (pure and with surface modifiers), polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), polysulfone (PSU) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) matrices. Investigated compounds were shown to be effective fluorescent probes for precise evaluation of H+ concentration in a broad range of input values (pH 2–12). Factors affecting accuracy of the measurements in solvents and matrices of a different nature are discussed. Finally, Catalan linear regression is introduced as a potential approach for discrimination of solvent polarity effects from acidity. Unlabelled Image • BODIPY dyes could be successfully utilized for pH and polarity measurements. • Sensory activity of the BODIPY dyes is determined by the donating atom environment. • Highest sensory callback was observed for Dibutylamino -phenyl- meso -BODIPY. • Formation of the hybrid materials is leading to pronounced changes in the sensory callback. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]