Specific Detection of BTEX Contamination in Water Using a π-Hole-Catching Surface Acoustic Wave Sensor

Benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene (BTEX) are volatile organic compounds that can contaminate groundwater resources, attracting significant attention due to their toxicity for human health and environment, and requiring the deployment of groundwater monitoring strategies. In this study, we demonstrate the selective detection of BTEX using a surface acoustic wave (SAW) sensor coated with a polymer specifically designed to selectively interact with BTEX molecules. Since BTEX molecules can engage in π-hole interactions, we designed a polymer incorporating perfluorophenyl groups, to promote π-hole interactions. We then show that these π-hole interactions lead to excellent specificity of detecting BTEX contamination in water sources over MTBE and ETBE interfering compounds. This novel approach holds promise for advancing the accurate identification of BTEX pollutants, addressing critical concerns in water quality assessment and management.