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Ultrasensitive detection of zineb using a CoMn-MOF/rGO molecularly imprinted electrochemical sensor

Research Abstract

Regulatory agencies have identified zineb (ZNB) as a potential health hazard due to its toxicological profile and environmental persistence. Therefore, establishing a highly selective and ultrasensitive method for ZNB detection is crucial for environmental monitoring, food safety assurance, and effective pesticide regulation enforcement. Herein, a selective electrochemical sensor was engineered based on a molecularly-imprinted polymer (MIP) film designed for targeted analyte recognition. The sensing platform integrates bimetallic cobalt–manganese metal–organic frameworks (CoMn-MOFs) with reduced graphene oxide (rGO) to enhance conductivity and surface activity. Initially, GO was synthesized and subsequently reduced to conductive rGO utilizing sodium borohydride via a modified Hummers’ method, forming a high-conductivity matrix for efficient electron transfer. Second, CoMn-MOFs were incorporated to significantly enhance the active surface area and facilitate electron transfer. A selective MIP layer was formed on the electrode surface via electro-polymerization, enabling precise molecular recognition of ZNB. The resulting MIP/rGO/CoMn-MOFs-modified glassy carbon electrode (GCE) exhibited excellent analytical performance, including a broad linear range (0.01–200 nM), a low LOD (4.0 pM), and high selectivity against potential interferents. When applied to real food and water samples, the sensor achieved high accuracy, with recoveries  ranging from 95.5% to 105.6% and RSDs between 1.87% and 4.00%. The method was validated using the standard addition technique, confirming its applicability for accurate ZNB quantification in complex food and water matrices. These findings validate the sensor’s potential as a practical, rapid, and environmentally friendly platform for monitoring ZNB residues in agricultural and environmental contexts.

Research Authors
Ramadan Ali, Hassabelrasoul Elfadil, Nizar Sirag, Reem Alshaman, Abdullah S. Albalawi, Nwaeam Albalawi, Amjad albalawi, Salma Alharbi, Alanoud Al-anzi, Shatha alatawi, Yusra Alhuaiti, Nawaf Aldwsari & Mohamed M. El-Wekil
Research Date
Research Journal
microchimica acta
Research Pages
469
Research Publisher
Springer
Research Rank
Q1
Research Vol
192
Research Website
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00604-025-07326-3
Research Year
2025