A highly sensitive and selective fluorescent probe for quantitative detection of Al(3+) in food, water, and living cells

Three novel β-pinene-based fluorescent probes 2a–2c were designed and synthesized for the selective detection of Al(3+). Probe 2a showed higher fluorescence intensity toward Al(3+) than the other two compounds. Probe 2a determined the concentration of Al(3+) with a rapid response time (45 s), wide pH range (pH = 1–9), excellent sensitivity (LOD = 8.1 × 10(−8) M) and good selectivity. The recognition mechanism of probe 2a toward Al(3+) was confirmed by (1)H NMR, HRMS and DFT analysis. Probe 2a was successfully used as a signal tool to quantitatively detect Al(3+) in food samples and environmental water samples. Furthermore, probe 2a was successfully utilized to label intracellular Al(3+), indicating its promising applications in living cells.