Two highly sensitive and efficient salamo-like copper(II) complex probes for recognition of CN−.

Two salamo-like copper(II) complex probes, L 1 -Cu 2+ and L 2 -Cu 2+ , were designed and synthesized for sensitive and efficient identification of CN−. UV spectroscopy, high resolution mass spectrometry, RGB analysis and naked eye recognition were performed to explore their recognition mechanisms. High resolution mass spectra indicated that the probes L 1 -Cu 2+ and L 2 -Cu 2+ formed complexes with CN−. The two probes could recognize CN− by the naked eye and the color of the solution changed from light yellow to red. In terms of application, the contents of CN− in the environmental water samples were tested. In addition, the optimal pH ranges for probe detection of CN− were investigated by pH value measurement. Two salamo-like copper(II) complex chemical probes, L 1 -Cu 2+ and L 2 -Cu 2+ , were designed and synthesized, which can specifically identify CN− in the visible region. Both probes can achieve naked eye recognition for CN− and can be applied to the detection of water samples in the environment. Unlabelled Image • Two salamo-like copper(II) complex probes, L 1 -Cu 2+ and L 2 -Cu 2+ , which can identify CN− by naked eye were designed and synthesized. • Among many anions, both probes can specifically recognize CN− in the visible region. • The recognition mechanism is that the probe can form new complex with CN− at a ratio of 1:1 and 1:4. • RGB analysis is tested for real-time monitoring of CN−. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]