Anion receptor based on thiourea: via hydrogen bonding interaction and efficient deprotonation

A new thiourea-based receptor through Schiff-based condensation of 8-hydroxyqui nolino-7-aldehyde and a phenylthiosemicarbazide was easily obtained. This novel sensor shows strong binding affinity for acetate, fluoride and phosphate ions through efficient deprotonation. We make an in-depth investigation on its anion binding prosperities and deprotonation process through Fluorescence, UV–vis and ¹H NMR titration experiments. Moreover, we propose the anion recognition process by assuming the existence of three-step equilibria.