A new quinaldine-functionalized calix [4]arene receptor (QHQC) was synthesized, characterized, and analyzed for its selective sensing properties toward Hg 2+ ions, and the binding event with characteristic color change can be followed by the naked eye. The sensing process is reversible, and the detection limit for Hg 2+ ions is 2.95 × 10 −6 M. A colorimetric solid state Hg 2+ sensor was fabricated by intercalating this receptor molecule into the bentonite galleries via the ionexchange method. This organic−inorganic hybrid sensor shows properties analogous to the receptor molecule and effectively detects Hg 2+ ions rapidly with visual color change. The solid state Hg 2+ sensor is economically affordable, environmentally benign, portable, reversible, and reusable.
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