The detection of anions in water phase with colorimetric sensors is a long standing academic challenge. The work by X. Zhang and team on page 1506 detects F−1 in pure water phase by taking advantage of the strong specific binding between F and Si, as well as the color change property of Si nanowires. It shows ultra-sensitivity, high selectivity, and good stability. Adv. Funct. Mater. , 2015 |