A selective colorimetric Hg2+ probe featuring a styryl dithiaazacrown containing platinum (II) terpyridine complex through modulation of the relative strength of ICT and MLCT transitions.

A series of platinum(II) terpyridine complexes featuring an aminostilbene donor-acceptor framework was synthesized. The complex with a dithiaazacrown moiety exhibits a highly sensitive and selective colorimetric response to a Hg(2+) cation through modulation of the relative strength of ICT and MLCT transitions. The results from (1)H NMR titration suggest the existence of a weak Pt(II)···Hg(II) metallophilic interaction at low Hg(2+) concentration.