New Methods for Anion Recognition and Signaling Using Nanoscopic Gatelike Scaffoldings

Colorimetric guest signaling is effected by a supramolecular approach that uses a mesoporous hybrid solid functionalized with gatelike scaffoldings. When the gate is open, a dye (see scheme; orange dots) embedded in the pore walls of a mesoporous solid is released into the solution giving color. If the appropriate anion (red dots) is present the gate is closed, the dye is locked into the pores, and the solution remains colorless.