Sensitivity, selectivity, visible
detection, and rapid response
are the main concerns for an analytical method. Herein, we reported
a metal–organic framework (MOF)-based ratiometric fluorescence
detection strategy for hypochlorous acid (HClO). The MOF was prepared
with dual ligands, 2-aminoterephthalic acid (BDC-NH2) and
dipicolinic acid (DPA) and Eu3+ ions as a metal node, denoted
as Eu-BDC-NH2/DPA. The dual-ligand strategy realized the
dual emission for ratiometric sensing and visual detection, adjusted
the size and morphology of MOFs to obtain a good dispersion for a
rapid response, and provided an amino group for the special recognition
of HClO. Thus, the MOF exhibited a dual emission derived from BDC–NH2 and Eu3+ ions at 433 and 621 nm, respectively,
under a single excitation at 270 nm. A hydrogen bond forms between
an −NH2 group and HClO to weaken the blue fluorescence
at 433 nm, while the antenna effect emission from Eu3+ ions
kept stable, so ratiometric sensing was realized with an easy-to-differentiate
color change for visible detection. The ratiometric sensing showed
a self-calibration effect and reduced the background. Thus, the high
sensitivity, visual detection, low detection limit (37 nM), and short
response time (within 20 s) for the detection of HClO were realized
with the MOF as a probe. The analysis of real samples demonstrated
the practical application of the MOF for HClO. The introduction of
mixed ligands is an effective strategy to regulate the emission behaviors
of MOFs for the improved analytical performance.