摘要：SummaryA series ofN-alkyl-substituted polybenzimidazoles (SPBIs), synthesized by simple condensation andN-alkylation, act as functional materials with tunable microstructures and sensing performance. For their controllable morphologies, the formation of nano-/microspheres is observed at then(RBr)/n(PBI) feed ratio of 5:1. Products with different degrees of alkylation can recognize metal ions and nitroaromatic compounds (NACs). For example,SPBI-c, obtained at the feed ratio of 1:1, can selectively detect Cu2+, Fe3+, and NACs. By contrast,SPBI-a, obtained at the feed ratio of 0.1:1, can exclusively detect Cu2+with high sensitivity. Their sensing mechanisms have been studied by FT-IR spectroscopy, SEM, XPS, and DFT calculations. Interestingly, theSPBIscan adsorb Cu2+in solution and show good recyclability. These results demonstrate that polymeric materials with both sensing and adsorption applications can be realized by regulating the alkylation extent of the main chain, thus providing a new approach for the facile synthesis of multifunctional materials.Graphical abstractDisplay OmittedHighlights•Tunable multifunctional sensor materials were synthesized by simple reaction•Morphology and sensing property can be controlled by the extent ofN-alkylation•SPBIscan selectively and sensitively detect multiple analytes by dual channels•SPBIscan reversibly and efficiently adsorb Cu2+as indicated with UV-vissignalOrganic chemistry; Photonics; Polymers; Optical Materials
