Electrochemical Rapid Detection of Methamphetamine from Confiscated Samples Using a Graphene-Based Printed Platform

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Nanotechnology
• Forensic Science

Background:

• Methamphetamine (MAP) is a potent central nervous system stimulant with significant abuse potential.
• Accurate detection of MAP is vital for forensic medicine, anti-drug initiatives, and clinical diagnostics.
• Nanomaterials offer promising advancements in developing sensitive analytical sensors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a fast, simple, and cost-effective electrochemical sensor for sensitive MAP detection.
• To validate the sensor's performance in complex matrices, including confiscated street samples.
• To establish a reliable method for preliminary screening of illicit drugs.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a screen-printed sensor using a graphene-modified carbon working electrode.
• Electrochemical analysis of standard MAP solutions and real-world samples (seized drugs, water).
• Optimization of sensor parameters to achieve high sensitivity and a wide dynamic range.

Main Results:

• The graphene-modified sensor demonstrated excellent sensitivity and a wide dynamic range (1-500 μM) for MAP.
• Achieved a low limit of detection (300 nM) in real samples, suitable for preliminary screening.
• Exhibited good recovery rates, indicating high reliability and repeatability.

Conclusions:

• The developed electrochemical sensor provides a sensitive, rapid, and cost-effective method for MAP detection.
• Its performance in complex matrices and low detection limit make it ideal for on-site screening.
• This nanotechnology-based approach supports forensic and anti-drug efforts by enabling efficient preliminary sample analysis.