Dual-function cellulose composites for fluorescence detection and removal of fluoride

A biodegradable and robust fluorogenic cellulose material for simultaneous fluoride recognition and adsorption at environmentally significant levels is presented. The fluorescent modified cellulose (FMC) containing a boronic acid-based anthracene group as a fluorescent signaling unit displays a selective fluorescence enhancement with F⁻. On the other hand, Cl⁻, Br⁻, SO₄²⁻, H₂PO₄⁻and ClO₄⁻ did not induce significant changes in fluorescence. Furthermore, FMC shows excellent F⁻ adsorption over a wide range of pH with a low dosage. Equilibrium studies demonstrate that the adsorption of F⁻ follows the Langmuir model in an aqueous solution. While, adsorption kinetics were found to follow the pseudo-second-order model. The simplicity of the method and the ability to detect and remove fluoride in waste water is noteworthy given the problems associated with fluoride pollution in drinking water.