Fluorescence Spectral Study of Berberine-K₂HgI₄ Associated Particle System and its Analytical Application

Abstract

In 0.08 mol/L HCl medium, berberine (BB) cationic ion and HgI42-combine to BB-HgI4association complex molecule. These complex molecules self-aggregate to (BB-HgI4)nassociation particles. It exhibits two fluorescence peaks at 400 nm and 470 nm. A new and sensitive fluorescence method has been proposed for the determination of trace amounts of BB in the range of 10 to 800 ng/mL. The detection limit is 3 ng/mL BB. The method has been applied to the determination of trace berberine in real samples, with satisfactory results. The cause of the fluorescence was also discussed.