A novel anthracene-based receptor: Highly sensitive fluorescent and colorimetric receptor for fluoride

A new highly sensitive colorimetric receptor 1 for fluoride based on anthracene-9,10-dicarbaldehyde bis-p-nitrophenylhydrazone was designed, synthesized and characterized. Experiments showed that the receptor 1 can selectively recognize the fluoride in DMSO and even in 95/5 DMSO/H2O (v/v) mixtures. The ability of recognition and the bond between receptor 1 and anions were determined using visual inspection, UV–vis and fluorescence analyses. In addition, 1H NMR experiments were carried out to explore the nature of interaction between receptor 1 and fluoride. Finally, analytical application and detection of fluoride in toothpaste have been studied.