Enzyme-free colorimetric sensor based on molecularly imprinted polymer and ninhydrin for methamphetamine detection

Abstract

Digital image colorimetry was applied to introduce a rapid, portable, and non-enzymatic test for methamphetamine measurements in urine. Imprinted polymer was synthesized in a simple, low-cost process and utilized for selective extraction of analyte from the sample in combination with the well-known ninhydrin color test. Applying the digital camera on a mobile phone, RGB basic color data were obtained, and calibration curves were developed for different concentrations of methamphetamine. Optimization of the test condition was carried out by changing some effective parameters such as extraction time and pH. The results were compared with some similar structural compounds indicating great potential for use as a selective and semi-quantitative field test for this drug. An acceptable linear range (5–100 μM) and detection limit (1.44 μM) as well as good agreement with the reference method, makes this fast portable method, an easy and reliable test for the analysis of methamphetamine in biological samples.