A Vibration‐Induced Emission‐Based Ratiometric Sensor for Detection of Anions in Aqueous Solution

Sensors that respond to anions via vibration-induced emission (VIE) have recently emerged as effective tools for discrimination between closely related carboxylate species in non-competitive, organic solvents. However, the utility of this sensing mechanism has not yet been demonstrated for anions in aqueous media. Here, we prepared two sensors, monoZnDPA-DPAC and ZnDPA-DPAC, with either one or two anion-binding motifs. These systems are capable of binding to anions in water. Dual emission via VIE is maintained in solvent mixtures of up to 70% water. ZnDPA-DPAC provides a unique, ratiometric response to citrate and phosphate, which was used for the accurate quantification of aqueous solutions of these anions.