Abstract
Simple, inexpensive and rapid sensing systems are very demanded for a myriad of uses. Intrinsic properties of emerging paper-based analytical devices have demonstrated considerable potential to fulfill such demand. This work reports an easy-to-use, low cost, and disposable paper-based sensing device for rapid chemical screening with a smartphone readout. The device comprises luminescent graphene quantum dots (GQDs) sensing probes embedded into a nitrocellulose matrix where the resonance energy transfer phenomenon seems to be the sensing mechanism. The GQDs probes were synthesized from citric acid by a pyrolysis procedure, further physisorbed and confined into small wax-traced spots on the nitrocellulose substrate. The GQDs were excited by an UV LED, this, is powered by a smartphone used as both; energy source and imaging capture. The LED was contained within a 3D-printed dark chamber that isolates the paper platform from external light fluctuations leading to highly reproducible data. The cellulose-based device was proven as a promising screening tool for phenols and polyphenols in environmental and food samples, respectively. It opens up new opportunities for simple and fast screening of organic compounds and offers numerous possibilities for versatile applications. It can be especially useful in remote settings where sophisticated instrumentation is not always available.
Highlights
Paper is a material of widespread use that was introduced in laboratories since centuries
The paper-based screening device proposed in this study, consists of PL-graphene quantum dots (GQDs) sensing probes contained within the 3D structure of a nitrocellulose matrix
Paper was selected as substrate due to its superior ability to wick aqueous solutions by capillary action, among other recognized qualities that make pumps or high power source requirements not necessary[33]
Summary
Paper is a material of widespread use that was introduced in laboratories since centuries. This work reports an easy-to-use, low cost and disposable paper-based sensing device for the rapid screening of two groups of phenolic compounds with no required instrumentation other than a simple mobile phone. The paper-based screening device proposed in this study, consists of PL-GQDs sensing probes contained within the 3D structure of a nitrocellulose matrix.
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