Rapid and sensitive detection of paracetamol in environmental aqueous samples using MnO2 nanosheet-based colorimetric sensing platform

This study introduces a novel method for the rapid and efficient detection of paracetamol, leveraging a colorimetric sensing mechanism predicated on the utilization of TMB-MnO₂ nanosheets. The interaction of paracetamol with MnO₂ is characterized by a selective reaction mechanism, leading to the reduction of MnO₂ to Mn²⁺ ions and consequent attenuation of the oxidase-mimetic activity of MnO₂. The developed colorimetric sensor exhibits a linear detection range for paracetamol extending from 5 × 10⁻⁴ to 10⁻² M, with a lower detection limit quantified at 5.24 × 10⁻⁷ M. Empirical assessments conducted to ascertain the influence of potential interferents prevalent in actual samples revealed a negligible impact on the colorimetric sensor. Furthermore, the application of this sensor system to real-world samples demonstrated its capability to detect paracetamol with a notable recovery rate and a relative standard deviation of < 6.65%. This approach manifests significant promise for the efficacious detection of paracetamol in various sample matrices.

Graphical abstract