Synthesis of a fluorescent chemosensor containing two thiourea groups and its recognition behavior for dicarboxylate anions

A novel anion receptor 2 bearing anthracene flurophore and thiourea was synthesized and identified by ¹H NMR, MS, IR and elemental analysis. The interaction between receptor 2 and various α, ω-dicarboxylate anions was studied by fluorescence spectrum. The obtained fluorescence data indicate that 1:1 stoichiometry complex is formed between receptor 2 with different dicarboxylate anions through a hydrogen-bonging interaction. The selectivity of 2 for recognition of different dicarboxylates depends on chain length of the anionic species.