Two new fluorescent sensors Cl and C2 with 4-aminoantipyrine unit have been prepared and characterized. Their complexation behaviour and binding mode towards Al3+ and other metal ions have been studied by UV-vis, fluorescence spectrometric and HRMS methods. The H-1 NMR titrations were carried out to explore the nature of interaction between receptor and aluminum ion. These sensors are successfully applied in highly acidic and neutral pH medium with the fastest response time (<5 sec). The fluorescence color change could be easily detected by the naked eye under a UV lamp. (C) 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.