A Simple and Selective Fluorescent Sensor for Zn2+ and H+ Ions in Aqueous Solution with OR Logic Gate Function

The synthesis and properties of a new compound, viz., (N,N′-[1,10-phenanthroline-4,7-diyldi((E)methylylidene)]bis(1,10-phenanthrolin-5-amine) (1), is described. Compound 1 can be used as a selective fluorescent Zn2+ sensor in buffered solution. Furthermore, 1 induces turn on fluorogenic response to H+ ions. Finally, it is shown that an OR logic gate can be constructed with 1 by using Zn2+ and H+ as two-inputs.