Construction of a self–reporting molecularly–imprinted electrochemical sensor based on CuHCF modified by rGNR–rGO for the detection of zearalenone.

A self–reporting molecularly–imprinted electrochemical sensor is prepared for the detection of Zearalenone (ZEA). Firstly, the reduced graphene nanoribbons and reduced graphene oxide (rGNR–rGO) were simultaneously modified onto a glassy carbon electrode (GCE) to improve the sensor's sensitivity. After electrodepositing copper nanoparticles onto the rGNR–rGO/GCE, cyclic voltammetry scanning was performed in potassium ferrocyanide solution, and copper hexacyanoferrate (CuHCF) was deposited onto rGNR–rGO/GCE to further improve the sensor's sensitivity while giving it self–reporting capability. Then, molecularly–imprinted polymer films were prepared on the CuHCF/rGNR–rGO/GCE to ensure the selectivity of the sensor. It is found that the linear range of ZEA detection by the constructed sensor is 0.25–500 ng·mL −1, with a detection limit of 0.09 ng·mL −1. This sensor shows the merits of good selectivity, high sensitivity and accurate detection, providing a great possibility for the precise detection of low concentration ZEA in food. [Display omitted] • rGNR–rGO were co-modified onto GCE to improve the sensitivity of the sensor. • CuHCF was formed in [Fe(CN) 6 ]3−/4– solution by CV scanning CuNPs/rGNR–rGO/GCE. • CuHCF can increase sensitivity while giving the sensor self-reporting capability. • MIP is generated on the electrode by electropolymerization to improve selectivity. • The sensor has a linear range of 0.25–500 ng/mL and a detection limit of 0.09 ng/mL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]