Nerve agent simulant detection by using chromogenic triaryl methane cation probes

Two triaryl methane cations have been used as probes for colorimetric detection of nerve agent simulants. Buffered mixed aqueous solutions of 1 and 2 showed bathochromic shifts in the presence of DCNP (diethylcyanophosphonate) and DCP (diethylchlorophosphate). The colour modulation can be observed to the naked eye. Appropriate mechanisms for the recognition event are proposed. © 2012 Elsevier Ltd.We thank the Spanish Government (projects MAT2009-14564-C01 and MAT2009-14564-C03) and the Generalitat Valenciana (project PROMETEO/2009/016) for support. R.G. is grateful to the Spanish Government for a fellowship. S.R. is grateful to the Generalitat Valenciana for a fellowship. SCSIE (Universidad de Valencia) is gratefully acknowledged for all the equipment employed.Gotor Candel, RJ.; Royo Calvo, S.; Costero Nieto, AM.; Parra Álvarez, M.; Gil Grau, S.; Martínez Mañez, R.; Sancenón Galarza, F. (2012). Nerve agent simulant detection by using chromogenic triaryl methane cation probes. Tetrahedron. 68(41):8612-8616. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tet.2012.07.09186128616684