Silver nanoparticle based highly selective and sensitive solvatochromatic sensor for colorimetric detection of 1,4-dioxane in aqueous media

A citrate stabilised silver nanoparticle (Ci-AgNP) based solvatochromic sensor, which functions as a highly selective and sensitive colorimetric probe for 1,4-dioxane in aqueous media is reported. The surfaces of the AgNPs generate reactive oxygen species, which promote the degradation of 1,4-dioxane assembled in the vicinity of the nanoparticle surfaces through charge transfer interactions. During this process, Ag0 is oxidised to Ag+ and the yellow colour of the solution turns to colourless. The sensor was used for the estimation of 1,4-dioxane in ground water and also 1,4-dioxane vapour diffused in aqueous media.