Innovative Science Popularization Experiment Design with Colorful and Intelligent Rare Earth Composite Luminescent Hydrogels and Identification of Ferric Ion
ZHANG Huan, FAN Zhi, ZHANG Xiu-Lan, YANG Ying-Hua**
College of Sciences, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin 300457, China
Abstract This popular science experiment demonstrates the formation of colored hydrogels through cross-linking sodium alginate with various metal ions,visually revealing the differences in coordination capabilities among metal ions and transforming invisible chemical bonds into tangible“chemical visual art”.By introducing europium and terbium rare-earth complexes into the hydrogels,a red-green dual-color fluorescence system is constructed.Through proportional adjustment,this system achieves dynamic multicolor luminescence under UV light,forming a unique“chemical palette”.Additionally,the material can intelligently detect Fe3+,as the fluorescence is immediately quenched upon contact without requiring complex instruments.The experiment translates microscopic processes such as coordination chemistry and fluorescence energy transfer into vivid and intuitive sensory experiences,integrating three functions:hydrogel formation,multicolor luminescence and ion recognition.The science communication follows a step-by-step strategy,progressing from the introduction of intriguing phenomena to the explanation of chemical principles,throughout which the cultivation of scientific thinking is embedded.By merging materials chemistry and photonics,it reveals how interdisciplinary innovation stems from the synergy of fundamental research,thereby nurturing a fertile social foundation for technological innovation.
ZHANG Huan, FAN Zhi, ZHANG Xiu-Lan, YANG Ying-Hua. Innovative Science Popularization Experiment Design with Colorful and Intelligent Rare Earth Composite Luminescent Hydrogels and Identification of Ferric Ion[J]. Chinese Journal of Chemical Education, 2026, 47(14): 34-40.
