Ion-Selective Electrode Based on a Novel Biomimetic Nicotinamide Compound for Phosphate Ion Sensor

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Analytical Chemistry
• Materials Science

Background:

• Phosphorus is a critical nutrient in aquatic ecosystems, but excess levels contribute to eutrophication.
• Rapid detection of phosphorus is essential for water resource management and environmental protection.
• Current ion-selective electrodes (ISEs) face challenges in real-time phosphate measurement due to ion properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel ion-selective electrode (ISE) for selective and rapid phosphate detection.
• To utilize a biomimetic nicotinamide functional group for enhanced phosphate binding.
• To evaluate the long-term performance and selectivity of the developed ISE.

Main Methods:

• Synthesized a new ionophore with a biomimetic nicotinamide functional group.
• Incorporated the ionophore into a silicone rubber-based ISE membrane.
• Tested the ISE's detection range, limit of detection, and selectivity against common ions.

Main Results:

• The developed ISE demonstrated efficient phosphate detection through charge interactions and hydrogen bonds.
• The ISE membrane exhibited stable and effective performance over an extended period.
• Achieved a dynamic detection range of 10^-6 to 10^-2 M with a limit of detection of 0.85 × 10^-6 M (26 μg/L).
• Showcased high selectivity for phosphate ions over acetate, sulfate, and chloride ions.

Conclusions:

• The novel biomimetic ISE provides a promising tool for real-time phosphate monitoring in aquatic environments.
• This technology can contribute to better water quality management and the prevention of eutrophication.
• The ISE's stability and selectivity pave the way for practical applications in environmental monitoring.