Multitopic Supramolecular Detection of Chemical Warfare Agents by Fluorescent Sensors

Abstract

Two new naphthalimide derivatives (hosts), bearing one or two ethanolamine arms, respectively, were synthesized and tested as fluorescent probes for the detection of a chemical warfare agent simulant (guest). The resulting host-guest hydrogen bonds allowed a recognition mechanism based on supramolecular interactions. The sensor with two ethanolamine groups showed excellent sensibility and selectivity in a turn-on fluorescent response.