UN SDG
Call for SR&TD Project Grants - 2017
€188.696,75
Xanthene-based optical sensors
Ana Margarida Gomes da Silva
REQUIMTE - Rede de Química e Tecnologia - Associação
Chemical Sciences
Chemical Sciences
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The key objective of the X-Sensors project is to synthesize highly fluorescent compounds by rational modifications of the xanthene scaffold, aiming the incorporation of these derivatives into polymeric matrices and subsequent evaluation of their optical sensing capabilities. The main innovation in the proposed fluorophores is centered on the rigidification of the xanthene platform by adding bulky groups or fused rings to improve their emission sensing properties. This set of fluorescent compounds will contain receptors - that enhance selectively and reversibly response to external stimuli - and that allow an easy and stable incorporation of compounds into sensing materials for measuring purposes. We will focus on the toxicological or environmental monitoring of gases, as well as the detection of cations and anions, in order to protect human health and local ecosystems.

In daily life, people are exposed to various contaminants and harmful substances that have a strong impact on human health, either by inhalation of pollutant air, or consuming contaminated food, among others. The optical sensors as analytical tools that enable measurements through an optical colorimetric or fluorescent signal, can be an effective approach to combat the exposure of populations to these contaminants. However, most of detectors available are not very selective, have calibration problems and a short lifetime. Sensing materials which are selective and durable are therefore desirable.

This project intends to respond to two major limitations of the technique: (i) improve the classical design of fluorescent molecule through strategic mutations of the xanthene platform. These molecules will be conjugated with receptors for a selective sensing the targeted analytes and, (ii) build new functional materials with improved robustness and durability properties using the xanthene as building block or functional unit.

Taking advantage of results obtained in previous projects, the exploitation of new synthetic avenues for the preparation of high-performance multifunctional materials is the main driving force of the X-Sensors project, which will be conveniently articulated with national and international collaborations, in order to enhance the development of optical sensors for hazard analysis and risk assessment in sectors as environmental, defense and food.

Furthermore, the use of xanthene fluorophores is being limited by the existence of a few commercially available derivatives and their costs are very high. Thus, the implementation of simple and easy-to-handle methodologies of the xanthene platform is desired and also commercially attractive and we believe that the X-Sensors will bring a significant contribution in this direction. All together are strong arguments to consider that the FCT program Concurso de Projetos de IC&DT em todos os Domínios Científicos 2017 is the appropriate tool to combine the expertise and knowledge to develop the present proposal.
fluorophoresreceptor unitspolymeric materialsenvironmental monitoring