PNNL

Abstract

The solvatochromic dye Nile Red dispersed in selected hydrogen-bond acidic polymer matrices demonstrated strong fluorescence enhancement at the presence of dimethyl methylphosphonate (DMMP) vapors. Two hydrogen bond acidic polymers were examined as dye matrices, one with fluorinated alcohol groups on a polystyrene backbone (PSFA), and the other with fluorinated bisphenol groups alternating with oligodimethylsiloxane segments (BSP3). The combination of hydrogen-bond acidic polymer (a strong sorbent for DMMP) with the solvatochromic dye led to initial depression of the dye fluorescence and a significant red shift in the absorbance and fluorescence spectra. DMMP sorption changed the dye environment and dramatically altered the fluorescence spectrum and intensity, resulting in a strong fluorescence enhancement. It is proposed that this fluorescence enhancement is due to the competition set up between the dye and the sorbed vapor for polymeric hydrogen bondig sites. The highest reponses were obtained with BSP3. DMMP detection has been demonstrated at sub-ppm DMMP concentrations, indicating very low detection limits compared to previous Nile Red/polymer matrix fluorescence vapor sensors. Nile Red/poly(methyl methacrylate) films prepared for comparisons exhibited substantially lower response to DMMP. Rational selection of polymers providing high sorption for DMMP and competition for hydrogen-bonding interations with Nile Red yeilded flourescent films with high sensitivity.