Two novel Se/O mixed-donor molecular probes based on ferrocene and anthracene units

Two mixed-donor molecules containing ferrocene and anthracene moiety, 1 and 2, have been designed and synthesized as potential multichannel probes for transition metal cations. They displayed switch-on fluorescence intensity only with Cu2 + among the metal ions examined. Electrochemistry and UV–vis spectra studies showed that Cu2 + induces the oxidation of ferrocene unit and then forms stable Cu+ complex.