The detection of phenols in water using a surface plasmon resonance system with specific receptors

A number of receptor molecules designed to bind phenols selectively have been synthesised and evaluated for use in a surface plasmon resonance (SPR) optical sensing system. To optimise sensitivity, films of the receptors entrapped in sol-gel and polymer matrices have been prepared. The most promising receptor systems are shown to give high sensitivity to phenols, together with SPR responses whose characteristics depend on the particular phenol present. These systems offer the promise of identification and quantification of phenol pollutants in water.