MnCuFe/P-GCE electrochemical sensor: a breakthrough catalyst for highly sensitive detection of methyl parathion in diverse matrices

Abstract

This study addresses the environmental and health concerns associated with the pesticide methyl parathion (MP) by exploring electrochemical sensing using a novel MnCuFe/P-GCE sensor. Derived from MnCuFe-PBA phosphidation, the MnCuFe/P sensor exhibited exceptional electrochemical performance for MP detection. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) indicated improved electrical conductivity post-phosphidation, enhancing charge transfer kinetics. Cyclic voltammetry (CV) demonstrated optimized redox behavior with [Fe(CN)₆]^3−/4−, making the sensor highly suitable for MP detection. The calibration plot against peak current revealed remarkable sensitivity over a wide range of concentration, with a detection limit (LOD) of 10 nM. The sensor's selectivity was confirmed by differentiating MP from interferents based on redox potentials and adsorption capacities. Reproducibility and repeatability assessments showed low relative standard deviation (RSD) values, indicating reliability. Long-term stability tests over four weeks demonstrated the sensor's consistent performance. Real sample analysis of various matrices validated practicality, yielding recoveries within an acceptable range for river water, tap water, fruits, and vegetables. Overall, the MnCuFe/P-GCE sensor emerges as an effective and dependable tool for electrochemically detecting MP in complex samples, showcasing sensitivity and selectivity.