Electrochemical sensor for detecting roxarsone in animal-derived foods using MXene and silver telluride

Detecting harmful feed additives in animal-derived foods is essential due to potential health and environmental risks. Given its toxicity, Roxarsone, a common organoarsenic compound, requires sensitive detection methods. This study introduces an electrochemical sensor using a glassy carbon electrode modified with 2D MXene (Ti₃C₂Tₓ) layered with silver telluride (Ag₂Te). Characterization through XRD, FT-IR, and XPS confirmed the sensor's composition. Electrochemical assessments using cyclic voltammetry and differential pulse voltammetry showed notable electron transfer and catalytic efficiency improvements. The sensor exhibited a broad detection range for roxarsone (0.03-2310 μM) with an ultra-low detection limit (0.32 nM) and demonstrated excellent reproducibility (RSD < 3 %), stability, and selectivity. Real sample analysis in meat products confirmed its practical application, achieving high recovery rates. This work offers a robust approach for roxarsone detection, employing MXene and Ag₂Te's synergistic properties to enhance food safety and environmental monitoring.