Electrochemical sensing technologies are becoming increasingly important for monitoring chemical residues in agricultural products. Herbicides such as Isoproturon and Diuron are widely used to control weeds in crop production, but their excessive use can lead to environmental contamination and potential health risks. Detecting these compounds quickly and accurately in food and agricultural samples is therefore essential for ensuring food safety and protecting ecosystems. Advanced sensing platforms are being developed to provide sensitive, rapid, and cost-effective detection methods.
A promising approach involves the use of electrochemical sensors based on nanomaterials. In particular, a screen-printed electrode modified with three-dimensional reduced graphene oxide and decorated with platinum–gold nanoparticles offers remarkable sensing performance. The 3D reduced graphene structure provides a large surface area and excellent electrical conductivity, which enhances electron transfer during detection. Meanwhile, Pt–Au nanoparticles act as catalytic sites, improving sensitivity and selectivity toward target herbicides.
The synergy between graphene and noble metal nanoparticles significantly improves the electrochemical response of the sensor. This combination enables simultaneous determination of both herbicides in a single test. The modified electrode exhibits strong signal amplification, allowing it to detect even trace amounts of these chemicals. Such capabilities are highly valuable for agricultural monitoring, where rapid screening of multiple contaminants is often required.
Another advantage of this sensor design is its practicality. Screen-printed electrodes are inexpensive, portable, and easy to fabricate, making them suitable for on-site testing in farms, markets, or food inspection laboratories. The sensor also demonstrates good stability, reproducibility, and resistance to interference from other substances commonly found in agricultural samples.
Overall, nanomaterial-based electrochemical sensors represent a powerful tool for modern food safety monitoring. By combining advanced materials like reduced graphene and noble metal nanoparticles, researchers can create highly sensitive detection platforms for harmful herbicides. This technology supports sustainable agriculture by enabling better monitoring of pesticide residues and helping ensure that agricultural products remain safe for consumers.
