Microfluidic Affinity Sensor Based on a Molecularly Imprinted Polymer for Ultrasensitive Detection of Chlorpyrifos

Area of Science:

• Electrochemistry
• Materials Science
• Environmental Science

Background:

• Pesticide use in agriculture poses significant public health risks.
• Selective and sensitive detection methods for pesticides like chlorpyrifos (CPF) are crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) thin film sensor for the selective detection of chlorpyrifos (CPF).
• To enable on-field monitoring of pesticides in agricultural produce.

Main Methods:

• Electropolymerization of pyrrole onto gold microelectrodes.
• Electrochemical deposition of MIP for selective CPF detection.
• Sensor characterization using spectroscopic, microscopic, and electrochemical techniques.

Main Results:

• The developed sensor demonstrated a wide linear detection range from 1 μM to 1 fM.
• Achieved a low limit of detection (LOD) of 0.93 fM and limit of quantification (LOQ) of 2.82 fM.
• Showcased high recovery rates (91-97%) in fruit and vegetable samples, with a shelf life of 70 days.

Conclusions:

• The electrochemical MIP sensor offers a highly sensitive and selective method for CPF detection.
• The sensor has significant commercial potential for on-field pesticide monitoring.
• This technology can contribute to enhanced food safety and public health protection.