A novel fluorescent sensor array to identify Baijiu based on the single gold nanocluster probe

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Baijiu is a key product in China's food market, necessitating stringent quality control.
• Accurate evaluation methods are crucial for ensuring Baijiu authenticity and quality.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel fluorescent sensor array for detecting organic acids and assessing Baijiu quality.
• To utilize glutathione-protected gold nanoclusters (AuNCs) as a core component for sensing applications.

Main Methods:

• Construction of a single AuNCs probe-based fluorescent sensor array.
• Modulation of AuNCs fluorescence using Cu²⁺, Mn²⁺, and Ag⁺ to create sensing elements.
• Application of chemometric analysis for data interpretation and classification.

Main Results:

• The sensor array effectively classified and quantified nine different organic acids.
• Successfully identified 21 Baijiu samples across 11 aroma types and different brands.
• Distinguished pure Baijiu from adulterations and demonstrated selectivity against interfering beverages.

Conclusions:

• The AuNCs-based sensor array shows significant potential for the quality monitoring of Baijiu.
• This method provides a selective and sensitive approach for analyzing complex alcoholic beverages.
• The developed sensor array can aid in ensuring Baijiu market integrity and consumer safety.