LAUSR

Abstract A new bithiophene-based biocompatible fluorescent and colorimetric sensor 2TD capable of detecting hypochlorite (ClO−) in enviro/biosystem was successfully synthesized. This sensor 2TD underwent a highly specific and sensitive oxidation reaction with ClO− and produced a bithiophene aldehyde (2T-CHO) emitting strong blue fluorescence, which was strongly confirmed by 1H NMR, HRMS, FTIR and DFT calculation. The 2TD for detecting ClO− displays an ultra-fast response (25 s), great water-solubility (~100% aqueous solution), wide pH working range (7–11), excellent anti-interference capability, and ultra-sensitivity with low detection limit of 8.3 nM. Colorimetric test strips demonstrate that 2TD can be utilized as a cost-effective and efficient solid-state sensor for rapidly and conveniently sensing ClO− with great sensitivity in practical applications. With the robust applicability, the 2TD was successfully utilized to determine/image ClO− in environmental water and live-cells. More interestingly, this developed sensor 2TD could be used as an efficient test tool for ClO− sensing.