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We have developed a novel approach for the rapid visual detection of Cu(2+) based on an anionic polythiophene derivative (sodium poly(2-(4-methyl-3-thienyloxy)propanesulfonate, PMTPS) using click chemistry. The method relies on the disassembly of PMTPS aggregates in the presence of cationic surfactant through electrostatic and hydrophobic interactions. In the assay of Cu(2+) detection, a cationic surfactant was formed via a click reaction catalyzed by copper(I), which was derived in situ from copper(II) and promoted the disassembly of PMTPS aggregates leading to the distinct solution color change from purple to yellow. This polymer probe has excellent sensitivity and selectivity for Cu(2+) with a detectable range in the micromolar regime by naked eyes and can be used for monitoring Cu(2+) concentrations below the safety limit in real-world samples.

We report the design and synthesis of a halochromic polythiophene derivative, whose conformation can be alternated between random coil and rodlike phase by adjusting the pH of the solution. Distinct solution color changes associated with the pH-induced conformational transitions can be used to construct a colorimetric probe for sensing carbon dioxide. This probe can be recovered by bubbling nitrogen gas into carbon dioxide-treated solutions for over 20 cycles.

We have developed a colorimetric and fluorescent dual-response probe for the detection of paraquat and diquat in aqueous solutions based on an anionic polythiophene derivative. The detection limit of this approach can be as low as 10(-9) M by fluorescence measurements.

A colorimetric probe for the detection of copper(II) ions in aqueous media by the naked eye has been developed based on a supramolecular complex comprised of a cationic polythiophene derivative and ATP with a detection limit as low as 0.05 mM.