Smart caffeine sensing: an e-MIP-based screen-printed voltammetric cell for beverage quality control

Area of Science:

• Electroanalytical Chemistry
• Materials Science
• Food Science

Background:

• Caffeine analysis is crucial for quality control in food and pharmaceuticals.
• Existing methods may lack the speed or selectivity required for rapid screening.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a sensitive and selective electrochemical sensor for caffeine detection.
• To utilize molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) for enhanced sensor performance.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of screen-printed electrodes modified with electrosynthesized overoxidized polypyrrole molecularly imprinted polymer (e-MIP_ox).
• Utilized Differential Pulse Voltammetry (DPV) for caffeine quantification based on its oxidation peak.
• Evaluated sensor performance including sensitivity, selectivity, and reproducibility.

Main Results:

• The e-MIP_ox modified sensor demonstrated superior sensitivity and reproducibility compared to unmodified and non-imprinted electrodes.
• High selectivity was confirmed through interference tests.
• The sensor achieved successful application in soft drink samples with recovery rates between 90-110%.

Conclusions:

• The developed electrochemical sensor offers a reliable and efficient method for caffeine determination.
• Screen-printed electrodes modified with e-MIP_ox are promising for rapid food analysis and quality control.