Eco-friendly Fluorescent Sensor for Sensitive and Selective Detection of Zn2+ and Fe3+ Ions: Applications in Human Hair Samples

Abstract

Abstract A new eco-friendly sensor, 3-((6-((4-chlorobenzylidene)amino)pyridin-2-yl)imino)indolin-2-one ( CBAPI ) was synthesized and well characterized. The CBAPI sensor was employed for detecting Zn 2+ and Fe 3+ ions. It exhibited a low limit of detection at pH 6.0, with values of 2.90, for Zn 2+ and 3.59 nmol L −1 for Fe 3+ ions. The sensor demonstrated high selectivity over other interfering cations. Additionally, the high binding constants reflect the great affinity of sensor towards Zn 2+ and Fe 3+ ions. To further validate its quantification ability for Zn 2+ ions, the synthesized CBAPI sensor was used to determine Zn levels in human hair samples, and the results were confirmed using atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS). The AGREE metric tool was used to assess the method’s environmental impact and practical applicability. These positive outcomes indicated that the new method for detecting Zn 2+ and Fe 3+ ions is environmentally friendly and safe for humans. The developed CBAPI sensor represents a potential development in metal ion detection, combining sensitivity, selectivity, and rapidity.