Selectivity enhancement of MIP-composite sensor for explosive detection using DNT-dengue virus template: A co-imprinting approach

Our current efforts are directed towards improving the selectivity of MIP composite sensors for detection of explosives. It is generally assumed that MIP selectivity depends mainly on compatibility between the analyte and polymer being used. Accordingly, less research has concentrated on applying imprinting techniques to modify the polymeric material. Where applied, imprinting has traditionally been carried out with one or two small target molecules simply mixed with or loaded on polymers. In this study, we employed a novel alternative protocol incorporating dengue virus particles to assist imprinting of DNT. The binding sites and affinity of DNT with dengue surface protein were simulated for enhancing MIP selectivity. Composite MIP sensors were produced and tested to detect explosive molecules including DNT, TNT, and PETN in aqueous solution. Interestingly, the sensor fabricated with DNT template and dengue virus co-imprinting demonstrated improved TNT selectivity as compared to the other MIP sensors. The detection limit of these sensors approached 0.3 ppt. (c) 2020 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.