Synthesis and Characterization of Molecular Imprinted Polymer on Multiwalled Carbon Nanotube for the Recognition of 5-Fluoro Uracil

An artificial receptor for 5-fluoro uracil (5-FU) was synthesized by molecular imprinting on the surface of multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWCNT). This was done by in situ polymerization of methacrylic acid, ethylene glycol dimethacrylate in presence of 5-FU by free radical polymerization. After removing the template, the obtained material was able to rebind 5-FU and discriminate it among other interfering species. Recognition of 5-FU was confirmed by the non-rebinding ability displayed by nonimprinted materials, obtained without a template. FT-IR, SEM and X-ray diffraction techniques confirmed the surface modification of the MWCNT. The ability of this material to rebind 5-FU was confirmed by adsorption kinetics, adsorption isotherm, and selectivity. Good selectivity was observed against uracil, and thymine. It is expected that this work opens new horizons in the design of new artificial receptors.