Nanostructured TiO2-X/CuXO-based electrochemical sensor for ultra-sensitive glyphosate detection in real water samples

Abstract

Glyphosate, a widely employed non-selective pesticide for enhancing crop productivity through weed control, poses significant health and environmental concerns due to its potential link to chronic diseases, cancers, and disruptions in natural symbiotic relationships. Quantifying glyphosate values becomes imperative for effective monitoring and mitigation of associated risks. In response, a novel electrochemical sensor was developed utilizing nanostructured TiO2 films modified with Ti3+ ions and copper oxides for precise detection and quantification of glyphosate in real water samples. The nanotubular structure, synthesized via potentiostatic anodization, underwent further modification through cathodic reduction of Ti4+ to Ti3+ ions and copper electrodeposition. Under optimal experimental conditions, the sensor exhibited a notable ability to detect glyphosate traces by inhibiting peak current in Differential Pulse Voltammetry (DPV). It achieved low limits of detection (LOD = 0.34 pmol/L) and quantification (LOQ = 0.70 pmol/L) within a linear working range of 0.55 to 1000.00 pmol/L. The sensor demonstrated robust stability and excellent precision (repeatability and intermediate precision) without significant variations in analytical response and yielded recovery rates ranging from 91.06 to 99.38 %. These promising results underscore the sensor’s potential application for detecting glyphosate in real aquatic matrices, contributing to effective environmental monitoring and health protection.