Synthesis, characterization and oxygen-sensing performance of a rhenium complex having an enlarged sensing area

• DOI: 10.1016/j.jlumin.2014.12.009
• Publication Date: 2014-12-15T12:52:38Z
• Authors: Xiao-yong Xu; Ai-ping Deng; Yun Xiang
• Keywords: 02 engineering and technology; 0210 nano-technology

Abstract In this paper, we reported a Re(I) complex Re(CO)3(IPD-Et)Br having an enlarged conjugation chain for oxygen sensing purpose, where IPD-Et=4-(1-ethyl-1 H-imidazo [4,5-f][1,10] phenanthrolin-2-yl)-N,N-diphenylaniline. Its conjugation chain was composed of triphenylamine group and imidazole group. In addition, an alkyl chain was connected with this N–N ligand to breach π–π attraction between ligand planes. It was assumed that above two factors could improve oxygen sensing sensitivity. Theoretical calculation and analysis firstly confirmed this hypothesis. Then photophysical measurement on Re(CO)3(IPD-Et)Br suggested that its emission was a lon-lived one peaking at 545 nm and thus vulnerable to molecular O2. Composite systems were constructed for oxygen sensing, using Re(CO)3(IPD-Et)Br as probe and mesoporous silicate MCM-41 as supporting matrix, respectively. Linear Stern–Volmer curves, short response time of ~13 s and high sensitivity of 3.99 were finally obtained.