Synthesis of tailored phthalocyanines and their application as spin coated films in volatile organic compound detection

29H,31H-(2,4-di-t-amylphenoxy)phthalocyanine, Zn(II) tetra-4-(2,4-di-t-amylphenoxy)phthalocyanine and Zn(II) tris-(2,4-di-t-amylphenoxy)-[4-(4-mercapto-phenylimino-methyl)-phenoxy]phthalocyanine were synthesized and their molecular structures were confirmed by LC-MS, H-1 NMR, FT-IR and UV-vis spectra. Spin coated layers of these phthalocyanines have been used as optochemically interactive materials for volatile organic compounds detection in the UV-vis spectral range. The results show a good sensitivity and selectivity depending on both the metal and the peripheral substituents. Optical sensitivity towards tert-butylamine, diethylamine, dibutylamine, 2-butanone and acetic acid has been monitored.