An Ion-imprinted Polymer-Receptor-Based Electrochemical Sensor for the Sensitive and Selective Detection of Cadmium

In this research work, an ion-imprinted polymer based electrochemical sensor developed for the sensitive and selective detection of cadmium ions in water. Ion-imprinted and non-imprinted polymers were synthesized by thermal free-radical bulk polymerization. Monomer to crosslinker ratio was optimized receptors chemistry and morphology were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Receptors were coated onto interdigital electrodes (IDEs) by spin coating and sensor parameters such as sensitivity, selectivity and reversibility were evaluated by using LCR meter. The fabricated sensor showed concentration dependent linear response with limit of detection of 103 ppb. Selectivity was analyzed in the presence of interfering ions such as Zn2+, Hg2+, Cu2+ and Pb2+. The sensor showed a highly selective and reversible response towards cadmium ions.