A Review of Recent Developments in Organic Probes for the Optical Detection of G‐Series Nerve Gas Simulants

ABSTRACT Nerve gases are chemical warfare agents (CWA) that cause irreversible inhibition of acetylcholinesterase in our body and consequently pose prominent lethal threats to the human race. The pragmatic detection and quantification of these harmful chemicals are therefore crucial for timely prevention and protection against such deadly hazards. Conversely, the research and developments related to these toxic gases suffer from serious life risks and are thus kept restricted and confidential among government agencies. A pertinent alternative choice for such R&D schemes therefore utilizes simpler, realistic nerve gas analogues (simulants) that are not only less toxic but also efficiently minimize the potential risk to research personnel. Herein, we present a systematic review on recently developed organic probes designed for the optical detection of nerve gas simulants with a specific focus on G‐series surrogates. The article further collates diverse mechanistic pathways for individual simulant‐probe interactions involving different functional groups in the probe molecules that cause prominent measurable changes in the spectral signature of the probe. Finally, we summarize the promising avenues to deploy faster error‐free nerve gas detections with efficient neutralization of toxic gases and propose revised policies for emergency guidelines to minimize casualties and hence promote global sustainability.