Abstract
F(-) ions (fluoride ions) are crucial in various chemical waste and environmental safety contexts. However, excessive fluoride exposure can pose a threat to human well-being. In this study, a simple 4-substituted pyrene derivative known as 4-hydroxypyrene (4-PyOH) was designed as a colorimetric probe for detecting F(-) through the formation of hydrogen bonds between F(-) and a hydroxyl group. The probe 4-PyOH exhibited exceptional sensitivity and selectivity towards F(-) ions and was successfully utilized as test strips for detecting F(-) ions in organic solvents. The detection limit reached an impressively low level of 3.06 × 10(-7) M in the organic solvent. The recognition mechanism was confirmed through (1)H NMR titration.