MIP/WS2-AC@Cu-MOF(199)/GCE composite: A robust solution for rapid and selective on-site electrochemical detection of perfluorooctane in real samples

Perfluorinated compounds (PFCs), recognized as emerging environmental pollutants of global concern due to their persistence and bioaccumulation, have posed serious threats to human health. This underscores the critical need for developing rapid and accurate detection methods for PFCs. In this study, we proposed a novel electrochemical detection approach for perfluorooctanoic (PFO), a representative PFC, employing a WS₂-AC-modified Cu-MOF(199) electrode integrated with molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) technology. The MIP, tailored for PFO recognition, was synthesized through electropolymerization of o-phenylenediamine (o-PD) on WS₂-AC@Cu-MOF(199) composites. Selective adsorption of PFO was enabled by hydrogen bonding interactions between the MIP and target molecules, and achieved effective detection after template elution. The method demonstrated high sensitivity with a broad linear detection range from 34 ng/L to 10.20 μg/L and an ultralow detection limit of 15.15 ng/L. Beyond its sensitivity, this technique exhibited advantages including low fabrication‌ costs, strong anti-interference capabilities, and exceptional selectivity and reproducibility. Notably, this method demonstrated a higher spike recovery compared to GC-MS in PFO detection. These combined features position it as a promising solution for monitoring PFO contamination in aquatic environments.