FRET based selective and ratiometric ‘naked-eye’ detection of CN− in aqueous solution on fluorescein–Zn–naphthalene ensemble platform

We have developed a FRET-based ratiometric fluorescent probe for the detection of CN− using a fluorescein–Zn–naphthalene ensemble (NFH·Zn2+). The sensing mechanism was ascribed by displacement approach. The chemosensor exhibits high selectivity and sensibility for CN−. The speculation was supported by fluorescence emission spectra, UV–vis spectrum, 1H NMR titration experiments, and mass spectra. The interconversion of probe NFH and NFH·Zn2+ via the complexation/decomplexation by the modulation of Zn2+/CN− mimics INHIBIT gate. In addition, it also shows an excellent performance in ‘dip stick’ method.