Visual detection of different metal ions based on the tug of war between triangular Au nanoparticles and metal ions against mercaptans

Herein, a new colorimetric sensor array was developed for the first time, which can rapidly recognize 9 types of metal ions (e.g., Ni²⁺, Zn²⁺, Cd²⁺, Cu²⁺, Cr³⁺, Fe²⁺, Se²⁺, Mn²⁺, and Mg²⁺).