Diketo-pyrrolo-pyrrole dyes as new colorimetric and fluorescent pH indicators for optical carbon dioxide sensors.

New indicators for optical CO2 sensors are synthesized in two steps from the commercially available diketo-pyrrolo-pyrrole (DPP) pigments Irgazin Ruby and Irgazin Scarlet. After introduction of bis(2-ethylhexyl) sulfonamide groups via a simple two-step synthesis, the pigments are rendered highly soluble in organic solvents and in polymers and show pH-dependent absorption and emission spectra. The new indicators have molar absorption coefficients in a 20 000-50 000 M(-1) cm(-1) range, possess quantum yields close to unity, and feature good photostability. The indicators along with a quaternary ammonium base are embedded into ethyl cellulose to give optical carbon dioxide sensors. The absorption and emission spectra of the deprotonated form are bathochromically shifted by more than 100 nm compared to the neutral form (λmax absorption 496-550 nm; λmax emission 564-587 nm). This enables colorimetric read-out and self-referenced ratiometric fluorescence intensity measurements. Importantly, the dynamic range of the sensors based on the new indicators is significantly different (0-10 kPa and 1-100 kPa CO2) that enables a broad variety of applications. New DPP dyes are conveniently prepared from commercially available pigments and represent a new class of colorimetric and fluorescent pH indicators for optical carbon dioxide sensors.