A fluorescent sensor for non-enzymatic detection of glufosinate ammonium

Glufosinate ammonium (GLA) ranks as the second most widely used herbicide worldwide and plays a vital role in modern agriculture. However, excessive or improper application of GLA has resulted in substantial environmental residues, raising concerns about potential risks to human health. Rapid detection of GLA is essential to mitigate the environmental, ecological, and food safety impacts caused by its residues. In this study, a fluorescent probe ( R )- 3 was successfully developed for the detection of GLA. ( R )- 3 exhibited high selectivity for GLA over 11 other common pesticides. Upon excitation at 425 nm, it produces intense absorption at 575 nm accompanied by bright yellow fluorescence emission. The probe achieved a low detection limit of 507.3 nM and a distinct colorimetric response. Furthermore, test strips based on ( R )- 3 were fabricated and applied to the detection of GLA in real weed and soil samples. A smartphone-based detection platform was also developed, highlighting its considerable potential for rapid pesticide monitoring and food safety applications. • A novel non-enzymatic fluorescent probe, independent of a biological environment. • Capable of specifically identifying glufosinate ammonium (GLA) among 11 pesticides. • The probe ( R )- 3 exhibits enhanced stability and persistence, achieving a low detection limit (LOD) of 507.3 nM for GLA. • ( R )- 3 demonstrates excellent colorimetric detection performance, enabling direct visual discrimination by the naked eye. • Test strips functionalized with ( R )- 3 were successfully applied for the effective detection of GLA in authentic leaf and soil samples. • A smartphone-based real-time detection device was developed, enabling the rapid and digital quantification of GLA.