Silicone films with azo dyes moieties based on eugenol with response to Cu2+ metal ions

In this work, cross-linked silicone films containing eugenol-based azo dyes (azoeugenol) were obtained as a classical two components formulations. These films were further investigated for their possible application as heavy metal ion binding. With the aid of spectroscopy in the UV–visible spectrum, it was proved that the films effectively bind heavy metal ions by the example of Cu2+ ions being placed both in either aqueous solutions or solutions with organic solvents. In addition, both by spectroscopy and visually, it was revealed that the films change their color after the binding of Cu2+ ions. Based on the collected data, it can be concluded that silicone films containing azoeugenol fragments can be considered as effective sorbents of heavy metals from various media. [Display omitted] •Cross-linked silicone films containing azoeugenol and bisazoeugenol dyes were obtained.•Both the original azoeugenol dye and the cross-linked silicone film demonstrated the formation of complexes with Cu2+ ions.•The resulting films are stable in organic solvents and water.