Molecular Recognition and Discrimination of Amines with a Colorimetric Array

Seeing smells: Highly selective discrimination between closely related amines has been demonstrated by using an array of chemoresponsive dyes (see picture). Hierarchical classification of amines based on their colorimetric response is successful and matches that expected from qualitative structural and electronic considerations. High sensitivity (ca. 100 ppbv) has been shown for the detection and discrimination of amines.