Metal-organic-framework-confined quantum dots enhance photocurrent signals: A molecularly imprinted photoelectrochemical cathodic sensor for rapid and sensitive tetracycline detection

Tao Wang ¹, Mengge Zhang ¹, Yuhao Lu ¹

⁰Key Laboratory of Modern Agriculture Equipment and Technology, Ministry of Education, School of Agricultural Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, China.

Analytica Chimica Acta +

|

February 8, 2024

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

This study presents a novel sensor for detecting tetracycline (TC) in livestock wastewater. The developed method offers highly sensitive and selective detection of TC, addressing limitations of traditional analytical techniques.

Area Of Science

Analytical Chemistry
Materials Science
Environmental Science

Background

Tetracycline (TC) overuse in livestock results in wastewater contamination.
Conventional methods struggle with sensitive detection of TC in complex samples.
Need for a highly sensitive, anti-interference method for TC detection in livestock wastewater.

Purpose Of The Study

Develop a sensitive and selective analytical method for tetracycline detection.
Utilize a novel material combining MOFs and carbon dots for enhanced detection.
Create a molecularly imprinted polymer-based photoelectrochemical (MIP-PEC) sensor.

Main Methods

Synthesized a porphyrin-based MOF (PCN-224)-confined carbon dots (CDs) material (CDs@PCN-224).
Developed a molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) via in-situ UV-polymerization as a recognition element.
Constructed a MIP-PEC cathodic sensor for TC detection.

Main Results

The CDs@PCN-224 material enhanced photocurrent signals due to improved electron-hole pair separation.
The MIP recognition element selectively blocked electron transfer, causing a 'turn off' signal for TC detection.
Achieved sensitive detection of TC from 1.00 × 10<sup>-12</sup> M to 1.00 × 10<sup>-7</sup> M, with a limit of detection of 3.72 × 10<sup>-13</sup> M.
Demonstrated effective TC detection in actual livestock wastewater samples.

Conclusions

MOF pore-confined quantum dots effectively enhance photocurrent response.
In-situ synthesized MIP offers excellent anti-interference and reusability.
The MIP-PEC cathodic sensor provides a promising method for rapid, sensitive antibiotic detection in environmental samples.

Keywords:

Carbon dots Metal-organic frameworks Molecularly imprinted polymer Photoelectrochemical cathodic sensor UV-Polymerization