A Tb-MOF sensor with sensitive detection of tryptophan and dopamine hydrochloride

Based on a 3-(2,4-dicarboxylphenyl)-6-carboxylpyridine ligand (H3dpcp), a Tb-MOF with the square hole was synthesized, namely, [Tb(dpcp)(H2O)]n (1). Complex 1 is porous three-dimensional structure and exhibits excellent luminescence stability within a certain range of pH 3-11 in aqueous solutions. It is noteworthy that complex 1 can selectively recognize tryptophan by the fluorescence quenching with high sensitivity, anti-interference, and recyclability; while complex 1 can also achieve sensitive detection of dopamine hydrochloride. Furthermore, the fluorescent sensing mechanisms of complex 1 for tryptophan and dopamine hydrochloride has been illustrated in detail.