Molecularly imprinted polypyrrole nanotubes based electrochemical sensor for glyphosate detection

Area of Science:

• Electrochemistry
• Materials Science
• Analytical Chemistry

Background:

• Glyphosate (Gly) is a widely used herbicide requiring sensitive detection methods.
• Existing detection methods may lack portability, specificity, or real-time capabilities.
• Molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) offer high selectivity for target analyte recognition.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a highly sensitive and specific electrochemical sensor for glyphosate detection.
• To create a portable and real-time monitoring device for glyphosate in various samples.
• To utilize molecularly imprinted polypyrrole nanotubes (MIPNs) for enhanced sensor performance.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of polypyrrole nanotubes (PPy NTs) functionalized with glyphosate (Gly) imprinted sites to create MIPNs.
• Fabrication of MIPNs-modified screen-printed electrodes integrated with a 3D-printed electrode holder.
• Electrochemical characterization and performance evaluation of the developed sensor.

Main Results:

• The MIPNs-based sensor demonstrated high electrical conductivity, rapid adsorption, and enhanced affinity for Gly.
• A wide detection range of 2.5-350 ng/mL with a low limit of detection (LOD) of 1.94 ng/mL was achieved.
• The sensor exhibited excellent stability, reproducibility, selectivity, and was successfully applied to detect Gly in orange juice and rice beverages.

Conclusions:

• The developed MIPNs-based electrochemical sensor provides a sensitive, specific, and portable solution for glyphosate detection.
• The sensor's performance in real food and environmental samples validates its practical applicability for pesticide monitoring.
• This technology holds promise for on-site and real-time analysis of agrochemicals.