Cyclic cataluminescence terpene array sensor based on γ-Al₂O₃/Eu-BTC for rapid hop origin identification

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Materials Science

Background:

• Hop origin identification is challenging due to geographic dispersion.
• Terpene profiles vary significantly between hop-growing regions.
• Accurate origin authentication is vital for the beer industry.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel sensor for rapid and accurate hop origin identification.
• To utilize terpene ratio variations for distinguishing hop varieties.
• To create a cost-effective analytical method for aromatic plant authentication.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of a γ-Al2O3/Eu-BTC composite material.
• Development of a cyclic cataluminescence array sensor.
• Analysis of terpene decay coefficients (k-values) for fingerprinting.
• Application of the sensor to identify the origin of 86 hop samples.

Main Results:

• The sensor achieved terpene-specific fingerprinting with distinct k-values for myrcene, farnesene, and humulene.
• Predictable k-value variations were observed in binary and ternary terpene mixtures (RSD < 9.6%).
• Successful application to 86 hop samples from six origins demonstrated method feasibility and accuracy.

Conclusions:

• The developed sensor provides a rapid, simple, and efficient method for hop origin identification.
• This technique holds potential for authenticating other aromatic plants based on their chemical composition.
• Cataluminescence sensing offers a promising approach for quality control in agricultural products.