Waterborne explosives: A rapid detection method using MoSe2 quantum dots

This study explores the synthesis of MoSe₂ quantum dots (QDs) via the hydrothermal method, followed by detailed characterization to determine their size and crystallinity. The MoSe₂ QDs exhibit a strong absorption peak at 260 nm and excitation-dependent photoluminescence (PL). These PL properties were utilized to develop a probe/sensor for detecting 2,4,6-trinitrophenol (2,4,6-TNP), a toxic nitroaromatic compound commonly found in contaminated water. As the concentration of 2,4,6-TNP increases, the PL intensity of QDs at 410 nm decreases in a monotonic fashion, showing a linear Stern-Volmer response within the concentration range of 3.3–99 nM, with a detection limit of 1.43 nM. The reduction in PL intensity is primarily driven by the inner filter effect. This study highlights the potential of MoSe₂ QDs for environmental monitoring and the detection of hazardous compounds like picric acid in water.