Synthesis and application of a novel self‐smart sensor based on a modified amino‐functionalized Zr‐metal–organic framework for rapid and selective detection of some toxic metals in wastewater.

In this study, a simple optical luminescence smart sensor derived from organic ligand‐based metal–organic framework material with high oxidation state central metal (Zr4+) was developed. It also was screened to achieve Fe3+, Pb2+, and Co2+ sensitive detection through the strong coordination of amino groups or nitrogen center with 2‐acetylpyridine ligand. The intrinsic optical and fluorescence intensities of sensor were regulated by the ligand‐to‐metal charge transfer effect. The new sensor exhibits an excellent selectivity, ultrafast detection of Fe3+, Pb2+, and Co2+ ions in water with good detection limits (LODs and LOQs). Fluorometric and UV–Vis absorption spectroscopies were used to conduct the study. Brunauer, Emmett, and Teller, Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR); X‐ray diffraction spectrometry; and X‐ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy were used to confirm the structure of the novel sensor. A real industrial wastewater sample was investigated against the synthesized sensor with a powerful detection efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]