Pesticide
residues in farm products create human health hazards.
Hence, sensors that detect their existence are advantageous to address
this critical problem. In this research contribution, fin-like CdSeS
nanoplatelets were synthesized from solution by adjusting the selenium-to-sulfur
molar ratio. Structural and photophysical properties were characterized
via XPS, XRD, UV absorption, and fluorescence emission. CdSeS nanoplatelets
exhibit a regular fin-like structure when the molar ratio of selenium-to-sulfur
is 1:1. Fluorescence emission from these nanoplatelets occurs at two
distinct wavelengths, characteristic of quantum dots. CdSeS fin-like
nanoplatelets generate red-shifted fluorescence to 530 nm, which is
useful to detect the popular organophosphorus pesticide dimethoate
effectively at concentrations that range from 10–5 to 10–7 mol/L. Upon increasing dimethoate concentrations
in solution, fluorescence intensity of CdSeS nanoplatelets decreases.
Hence, direct sensing of dimethoate is feasible. Another important
significance of this work is the use of low-toxicity and recyclable
cadmium acetate instead of cancer-causing and nonrecyclable cadmium
oxide, which will be helpful to reduce environmental pollution.