A reversible fluorescent-colorimetric imino-pyridyl bis-Schiff base sensor for expeditious detection of Al(3+) and HSO3(-) in aqueous media.

A reversible fluorescent-colorimetric imino-pyridyl bis-Schiff base receptor (N(1)E,N(4)E)-N(1),N(4)-bis(pyridine-4-ylmethylene)benzene-1,4-diamine for the detection of both Al(3+) and HSO3(-) in aqueous medium has been developed. Receptor exhibits an excellent selective fluorescent-colorimetric response toward Al(3+). The sensitivity of the fluorescent based assay (0.903 μM) for Al(3+) is far below the limit recommended in the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines for drinking water (7.41 μM). From (1)H NMR data, the Job plot and the ESI-MS spectrum, 1 : 2 stoichiometric complexation between and Al(3+) has been established. Receptor shows remarkable detection ability in a wide pH range of 4-11 and was successfully utilised in the determination of Al(3+) in aqueous solution of bovine serum albumin protein, and of HSO3(-) in real food samples. Moreover, shows a highly selective colorimetric response to HSO3(-) by changing its colour from yellow to colorless immediately without any interference from other anions.