A ratiometric fluorescent probe for the rapid and specific detection of HSO3- in water samples

Hydrosulphite (HSO3-), as a common and important chemical reagent, is widely used in everyday life, however excessive use and abuse of HSO3- can cause potential harmful effects on the environment and in biological health. In this paper, we describe the design and preparation of a colorimetric and ratiometric fluorescence probe for the visual detection of HSO3- (excitation wavelengths were, respectively, 336 nm and 520 nm). This method showed some advantages including simple preparation, high selectivity, fast response, and significant colour and fluorescence ratio (F-450/F-594) changes in the presence of HSO3-. In addition, this probe was used successfully for the detection of HSO3- in real water samples and showed a good recovery rate range.