Protonation of Terbium Complexes as a Possible Chemical Sensor

Authors

Sean W. MurrayFollow
Justin Stace, Belmont UniversityFollow

Publication Date

Spring 4-16-2025

College

College of Sciences & Mathematics

Department

Chemistry and Physics, Department of

Student Level

Undergraduate

Faculty Advisor

Dr. Justin Stace

SPARK Session

3:15-4:15

Presentation Type

Article

Summary

Upon ultraviolet excitation, terbium(III)-ligand complexes exhibit strong yellow-green fluorescence in accordance with the antenna effect. Recent studies in our laboratory show remarkable quenching of the emission signature upon exposure of homoleptic complexes to water or mineral acids. The changes are completely reversible under mild conditions, suggesting possible applications as a chemical sensor. We have recently synthesized [Tb(pydm)₃](NO₃)₃ (pydm = 2,6-pyridine dimethanol). We have purified and characterized this product via ¹H and ¹³C nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-vis). The photophysical properties of the complex have been studied by electronic absorption and emission spectroscopy. We will be investigating the reactions causing the quenching of the emission upon exposure to water to aid the design of chemical sensors.

Recommended Citation

Murray, Sean W. and Stace, Justin, "Protonation of Terbium Complexes as a Possible Chemical Sensor" (2025). SPARK Symposium Presentations. 581.
https://repository.belmont.edu/spark_presentations/581