Synthesis, photo- and ionochromic properties of indolyl(thienyl)maleimides with phenanthroline receptor

Abstract

Photochromic indolyl(thienyl)maleimides containing phenanthroline receptor in the bridge moiety were synthesized. Ring-opened maleimides possess fluorescence with quantum yields of 0.027-0.037. Irradiation of their solutions with light of 436 nm results in the formation of non-fluorescent ring-closed isomers. Reopening of the cycle occurs by exposure to visible light (λ > 500 nm). The obtained compounds demonstrate selective chemosensor activity to Fe2+ ions.