A chemodosimer based on a core-substituted naphthalene diimide for flouride ion detection

We have demonstrated the use of a core-substituted naphthalene diimide (c-NDI) bearing trimethylsilyl- acetylene moieties which is capable of being utilised as a colorimetric and fluorescent chemodosimeter for anions. The detection of anions was carried out by desilylation of the detector. A significant change, visible to the naked eye, was observed only upon addition of F- ions; addition of other ions, such as Cl-, Br-, HSO4-, AcO- and H2PO4- resulted in no distinct changes. Modifications of the electronic properties of the c-NDI upon addition of fluoride ions were characterised by means of UV-vis, fluorescence and H-1 NMR spectroscopy.