Detection of phthalate esters in PET bottled drinks and lake water using esterase/PANI/CNT/CuNP based electrochemical biosensor

Abstract

Phthalate esters (PEs) are the most common plasticizers that tends to exhibit endocrine disruption. Since, these PEs are used in the manufacture of PET bottles and PVC products: point of exposure magnifies up on consumption of PET bottle and plastic container stored drinking water and beverages. Apart from human exposure to PEs, bioaccumulation of PEs and toxic effects among wildlife also seems to be divergent. In the present study, an enzyme-based biosensor for the detection of PEs was developed to overcome the tedious extraction procedures involving PE extraction and sophisticated instruments for the detection. Linear Sweep voltammetry analysis of Nafion (NF) surface modified glassy carbon electrode with esterase (EST) and nano-components was carried-out. Peak potential of individual PEs were in the range of −1.72 to −1.82 V at the concentration of 1 × 10−5 mmol L−1. Sensitivity of EST/PANI/CNT/CuNP–NF modified GCE was determined in terms of detection limit and was calibrated to be 0.03–0.08 nmol L−1. Thus, the developed enzyme based electrochemical sensor could be successfully employed in determining PE exposure in humans and bioaccumulation among aquatic flora and fauna via., consumption of PET bottle stored drinks and industrial effluents discharged into the lakes.