A stable pillared metal–organic framework constructed by H4TCPP ligand as luminescent sensor for selective detection of TNP and Fe3+ ions

Abstract A novel luminescent metal–organic framework ( Zn‐TCPP/BPY ) with pillared structure based on 2,3,5,6‐tetrakis(4‐carboxyphenyl)pyrazine (H 4 TCPP) and 4,4′‐bipyridine (BPY) has been designed and synthesized through a solvothermal reaction. The [Zn 2 (COO) 4 ] paddlewheel units are linked by TCPP 4− ligands to form two‐dimensional layers and further connected by BPY ligands as pillars to construct the twofold interpenetrating three‐dimensional framework. Interestingly, Zn‐TCPP/BPY possesses outstanding stability in organic solvents and water as well as maintains its structural rigidity in aqueous solutions of different pH values (3–12). After activation, Zn‐TCPP/BPY possesses permanent porosity with Brunauer–Emmett–Teller surface area of 630 m 2 g –1 . Remarkably, Zn‐TCPP/BPY displays excellent fluorescent property in virtue of the aggregation‐induced emission effect of the H 4 TCPP ligand, which can be highly active and quenched by small amounts of 2,4,6‐trinitrophenol (TNP) and Fe 3+ ions. Furthermore, the detection effect of Zn‐TCPP/BPY remains basically the same even after five cycles. The excellent stability, high sensitivity, and recyclability of Zn‐TCPP/BPY make it an outstanding chemical sensor for detecting TNP and Fe 3+ ions.