Sensitive detection of cadmium ions based on a quantum-dot-mediated fluorescent visualization sensor

A sensitive ratiometric fluorescent sensor for detecting cadmium ions (Cd(2+)) was constructed based on carbon quantum dots (CQDs)/CdTe quantum dots (CdTe QDs). Red fluorescence (from CdTe QDs) played the role of the signal response and blue fluorescence (from CQDs) served as a reference probe without a color change. The fluorescent sensor showed high selectivity and sensitivity to Cd(2+) with a limit of detection (LOD) of 0.018 μM and a range from 0.1 μM to 23 μM. The proposed method was successfully applied to the determination of Cd(2+) in real rice samples. In addition, a fluorescent sensor integrated with a smartphone platform was further designed for the visualized and quantitative detection of Cd(2+). This work might extend the range of visualization analysis strategies and provide new insights into the rapid quantitative, portable and sensitive detection of Cd(2+) in real-time and on-site applications.