A new series of 2,5-bis(4-methylphenyl)-1,3,4-oxadiazole derivatives: their synthesis and fluorescence properties for anion sensors

A new series of 2,5-bis(4-methylphenyl)-1,3,4-oxadiazole derivatives containing various substituted groups on the ortho-position to oxadiazole ring was synthesized and their fluorescent sensor properties were investigated. The fluorescent sensor molecules showed UV absorption shift as well as fluorescence emission shift upon exposure to fluoride anion in DMF solution, which was considerably dependent on the substituent attached on the phenyl group. The new sensory compound, 1d can be used as a fluoride anion sensor in terms of naked-eye detection and fluorescent sensing with high selectivity.