Schiff base and organic ligand stabilized metal nanoparticles as potential chemosensors for hazardous metal ions: Design, principle, optical signaling mechanism and application

Metal ions participate in numerous essential biological processes in our body. In the external environment, metal ions are present in food, soil, and water. However, the presence of metal ions concentration above the permissible limits may cause hazardous effect on environment and human beings. Therefore, detection of metal ions with high selectivity and sensitivity is important for biological system and in environmental monitoring. In literature, several examples employing Schiff base derivatives or MNPs as optical sensors for metal ions were investigated. However, studies on the development of Schiff base stabilized metal nanoparticles as optical sensors for hazardous metal ions are scanty in the literature. At present, it is essential to be able to construct controlled ultra-small, highly dispersed, stable, and functionalized metal nanoparticles (MNPs) to make them suitable for industrial applications. The production of Schiff base stabilized metal nanoparticles (MNPs) can be achieved easily without demanding experimental requirements. As a result, it provides a simple, quick, and effective approach to create highly efficient catalysts for the treatment of environmental pollutants. Herein, we report Schiff base and organic ligand stabilized metal nanoparticles as potential chemosensors for hazardous metal ions.