Recent Progress in the Development of Organic Chemosensors for Formaldehyde Detection

Abstract

Formaldehyde has become a prominent topic of interest because of its simple molecular structure, release from various compounds in the near vicinity of humans, and associated hazards. Thus, several researchers designed sophisticated instrumentations for formaldehyde detection that exhibit real-time sensing properties and are cost-effective and portable with high detection limits. On these grounds, this review is centered on an analysis of optical chemosensors for formaldehyde that specifically fall under the broad spectrum of organic probes. In this case, this review discusses different organic functionalities, including amines, imines, aromatic pillar arenes, β-ketoesters, and β-diketones, taking part in various reaction mechanisms ranging from aza-Cope rearrangement and Schiff base and Hanztch reactions to aldimine condensation. In addition, this review distinguishes reaction mechanisms according to photophysical phenomena, that is, aggregation-induced emission, photoinduced electron transfer, and intramolecular charge transfer. Furthermore, it addresses the instrumentation involved in gas-based and liquid formaldehyde detection. Finally, it discusses the gaps in existing technologies followed by a succinct set of recommendations for future research.

Tunable fluorescent probes for detecting aldehydes in living systems

“…In recent years, diverse detection methodologies for aldehydes have emerged, encompassing both analytical techniques 5,6 and bioorthogonal fluorescence probes. 7–12 However, a comprehensive tool specifically designed for in vitro / in vivo detection and monitoring of total aldehyde content within physiological relevant systems like organoids and tissues are lacking. Notably, near-infrared (NIR) probes, spanning from 650 nm to 900 nm, 13 have exhibited superior efficacy in living systems as compared to traditional fluorescent dyes.…”