A multi-state fluorescent switch based on a diarylethene with an acridine unit.

ABSTRACT

A new asymmetrical fluorescent diarylethene derivative with an acridine unit was synthesized by Schiff base condensation. The derivative was sensitive to lights and special metal ions. Stimulated by UV/vis lights and Zn2+, distinct changes were observed in UV-vis and fluorescent spectra. Upon addition of Zn2+, the derivative emission peak was blue-shifted by 34nm and the emission intensity was enhanced by 16 fold, accompanied by the fluorescent color changed from red to light yellow, due to the formation of a 11 metal/ligand complex. The complex exhibited excellent fluorescence switching upon irradiation with UV light. Taking advantage of the lights and Zn2+ stimuli (inputs), and fluorescence intensity at 580nm (output), a molecular logic gate was constructed. Moreover, a new absorption band centered at 420-450nm emerged upon exposure to Zn2+. The dramatic color change of the solution made the 'naked-eyes' detection of Zn2+ possible.