We report the synthesis and extensive characterization of three classes of benzimidazole-based sensors. Being amphoteric, the benzimidazole core can be used as a sensing motive in the direct identification and quantification of both acidic and basic analytes. By conjugating benzimidazole nuclei to arylethynyl groups, we ensured that the prepared molecules were fluorescent. In cases of donor/acceptor-substituted species, DFT calculations revealed that the frontier molecular orbitals (FMOs) localize on different portions of the molecule�thus constituting the basis of the optical response of these species to analytes. Specifically, this poster will disclose the synthesis and characterization of: (a) benzimidazole-based cruciform and half-cruciform sensors, (b) hybrid benzimidazole/urea sensors, design as receptors for ion pairs, and (c) macrocyclic box-shaped receptor, which was expected to show shape- and size-selective binding of both anions and cations. Affinities of these novel sensors for cationic and anionic analytes were investigated using UV/Vis-absorption and fluorescence spectroscopy, as well as NMR spectroscopy. ?

Benzimidazole-based sensors: Synthesis, characterization and optical properties

247th National Meeting (2014)

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