A novel type of graphene-like nanoparticle, synthesized by oxidation and unfolding of C60 buckminsterfullerene fullerene, showed multiple and reproducible sensitivity to Cu2+, Pb2+, Cd2+, and As(III) through different degrees of fluorescence quenching or, in the g35 coupe fender case of Cd2+, through a remarkable fluorescence enhancement.Most importantly, only for Cu2+ and Pb2+, the fluorescence intensity variations came with distinct modifications of the optical absorption spectrum.Time-resolved fluorescence study confirmed that the common origin of these diverse behaviors lies in complexation of the metal ions by fullerene-derived carbon layers, even though further studies are required for a complete explanation of the involved processes.Nonetheless, the different response of fluorescence and optical absorbance towards distinct cationic edgewater shoes species makes it possible to discriminate between the presence of Cu2+, Pb2+, Cd2+, and As(III), through two simple optical measurements.
To this end, the use of a three-dimensional calibration plot is discussed.This property makes fullerene-derived nanoparticles a promising material in view of the implementation of a selective, colorimetric/fluorescent detection system.