Impedance based detection of chemical warfare agent mimics using ferrocene-lysine modified carbon nanotubes

A recognition layer formed by multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) covalently modified with a ferrocene-lysine conjugate deposited on the indium tin oxide (ITO) was investigated as a sensor for chemical warfare agent (CWA) mimics. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy measurements showed that upon addition of CWA mimic dramatic changes occurred in the electrical properties of the recognition layer. These changes allowed the detection of nerve agent analogues at the micromolar level, and a limited sensitivity was observed toward a sulfur mustard mimic. Experimental parameters were optimized so as to allow the detection of CWAs at single frequency, thereby significantly reducing acquisition time and simplifying data treatment. A proposed method of detection represents a significant step toward the design of an affordable and "fieldable" electrochemical CWA sensor.