Electrodeposited Pt@Molecularly imprinted polymer core-shell nanostructure: Enhanced sensing platform for sensitive and selective detection of bisphenol A

Abstract A novel electrochemical sensor based on Pt@molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) core-shell nanostructure was developed using a facile electrodeposition method. This unique core-shell nanostructure offered the advantages of large electrode surface area, regular morphology, high selectivity and sensitivity. The poly(3, 6-diamino-9-ethylcarbazole) based MIP shell acted as the recognition element, while the inner Pt nanoparticles acted as a catalytic center. The morphology of the core-shell nanostructure was observed by scanning electron microscopy and the electrochemical property was evaluated using cyclic voltammetry. The sensing performance of the Pt@MIP sensor was investigated using the analyte of bisphenol A (BPA). Influence of the polymerization conditions on the performance of the Pt@MIP sensor was investigated. Under the optimized condition, a wide linear range (0.007 μM ∼ 70 μM), a low detection limit (0.0032 μM) and a good selectivity were obtained for the detection of BPA. Finally, the sensor was applied to the detection of BPA in serum and drinking bottle samples with satisfying results.