Heavy metal ions monitoring using molecular ligands: Optical properties and analytical performances

Abstract

Heavy metal ions are resistant to degradation and pollute a wide range of natural resources found in the environment, such as water. Detecting heavy metals is crucial for monitoring environmental safety and preventing the harmful effects of metal ion exposure. Therefore, this study has focused on Schiff‐base chemosensors, due to their efficacy in detecting metal ions, owing to their simplicity, cost‐effectiveness, rapid photophysical response, greater sensitivity, minimum detection limit, and applicability to the environmental and medical domains. Such chemosensors are crucial for ensuring public health and safety because they offer a feasible and efficient way to monitor concentrations of heavy metals. This review focuses on using spectroscopic chemosensors to detect Pb2+, Cd2+, and Hg2+ ions. The discussion includes the mechanisms and signal change properties of these chemosensors, as well as critical factors such as the limit of detection, binding stoichiometry ratio, association constant, appropriate pH, and structure. The article concludes with key findings and future perspectives, emphasizing the crucial role of metal ion monitoring devices in protecting the environment and human health.