Perylene diimide supramolecular aggregates: Constructions and sensing applications

Perylene diimides (PDIs) with high fluorescence quantum yield and well π-conjugated plane have been widely studied to construct supramolecular aggregates via noncovalent interactions and to further develop supramolecular fluorescent sensors triggered by analytes. This review summarizes recent progress in the design strategies and sensing applications of the PDI supramolecular aggregates. Besides the inherent π-π stacking of the PDI plane, the additional driving forces to promote the construction of PDI supramolecular aggregates are classified into four parts including hydrogen bonding interactions, electrostatic interactions, metal-coordination interactions and host-guest interactions. Then, the PDI supramolecular aggregates can be used to detect metal ions, biomolecules and organic molecules. Finally, the potential future developments of the PDI supramolecular aggregates in sensing applications are discussed.