A removing resonance fluorescence method for light scattering spectroscopy

Herein, we report a removing resonance fluorescence (RRF) technique for light scattering spectroscopy (RLS), which takes full advantage of the differences between RF and scattered light in different wavelength regions to achieve an accurate separation of them. Then MPA-capped quantum dots (QDs) sensing Hg2+ is employed as an example to introduce the implementation of this method. The results indicate that Hg2+ ions destroy the stability of QDs, causing them to agglomerate, which might contribute to fluorescence quenching of QDs. Our study provides a useful tool for separating RF and scattered spectra, which expands the application range of RLS. [Display omitted] •A useful method removing resonance fluorescence from light scattering spectra is provided.•The results suggest QDs agglomeration might also contribute to fluorescence quenching of QDs.•The RRF method can explain the scattered signal in perpendicular direction of two polarizers. Herein, we report a removing resonance fluorescence (RRF) technique for light scattering spectroscopy (RLS), which takes full advantage of the differences between resonance fluorescence (RF) and scattered light in different wavelength regions to achieve an accurate separation of them. Then MPA-capped quantum dots (QDs) sensing Hg2+ is employed as an example to introduce the implementation of this method. The results indicate that Hg2+ ions destroy the stability of QDs, causing them to agglomerate, which might contribute to fluorescence quenching of QDs. Our study provides a useful tool for separating RF and scattered spectra, which expands the application range of RLS.