Composites Part A 210 (2026) 110083

Keywords:Shape memory polymers Fluorescent polyurea Composite fibrous membranes Fe detection

Simultaneous detection and removal of excess Fe 3+ is essential for ecological balance, food safety, and pathology,  yet despite the promising stability of specific fluorescent functional materials, their conventional direct disper sion in aqueous solution causes structural instability, secondary pollution, and a lack of integration between  detection and removal. To overcome these limitations, we developed a programmable, fluorescent, and shape-  changing composite fiber for Fe 3+ recognition, detection, and removal in a single platform. Composite fibers  are prepared by combining fluorescent particles with thermally responsive fibers via electrostatic forces. The  fibers have stable fluorescent properties and can detect Fe 3+ with high selectivity and sensitivity. Upon thermal  stimulation, it undergoes reversible shape programming and recovery, enabling a structural transition from  random to aligned at the microscale. This smart structural modulation enhances specific surface area and pore  distribution, thereby improving Fe 3+ detection and adsorption capacity. The programmable fiber exhibits se lective fluorescence quenching within 5 s and achieves up to 98 % Fe 3+ removal efficiency through shape-  changing composite fiber. Our work provides a novel and sustainable strategy for large-scale management,  addressing the dual need for Fe 3+ detection and filtration in modern smart water treatment systems.

Yiling Yu, Tao Guo, Lan Luo, Linlin Wang, Fenghua Zhang, Yanju Liu, Jinsong Leng

Programmable, fluorescent and shape-changing composite fibers for Fe detection and filtration.pdf