Trace level Al detection in aqueous media utilizing luminescent ensembles comprising pyrene laced dynamic surfactant assembly.

Easily synthesizable amphiphilic probes have been designed for the detection of Al exclusively at mesoscopic interfaces. The surface charge of the surfactant assemblies and the fluidity of the lipid aggregates show pronounced effects on the extent of Al detection. Excellent sensitivity has been observed specifically in the presence of anionic surfactants and the lipid membranes with more sol-like characteristics. Moreover, a variation in the modes of Al complexation is observed on shifting from one regioisomer to another. For instance, the para isomer exhibits a 1 : 2 stoichiometry with the Al ion, while for the ortho-isomer, it is a 1 : 1 interaction. Considering the excellent sensitivity of the probe molecule towards Al, the present system has been utilized for the estimation of soluble aluminum content in acidic soil samples as well as in pharmaceutical tablets. Low-cost paper strips are developed for rapid, on-site detection of Al without involving advanced instruments or trained technicians. Finally, the bioimaging of Al is achieved in cervical cancer (HeLa) cells.