Electrochemical Sensor for Antihistamine Drug Detection in River Water Using MoO3 Nanorods

Insufficient research has been conducted on the comprehensive detection of cetirizine dihydrochloride (CDH) in water bodies, while also overlooking the exploration of response time. Addressing these research gaps is crucial to enhance our understanding and detection capabilities of CDH in water. Consequently, the objective of this study was to develop an electrochemical sensor utilizing molybdenum trioxide (MoO3) nanointerfaced glassy carbon working electrode for the sensitive detection of CDH in water samples. The characterization of the MoO3 nanorods was conducted through morphological analysis using scanning electron microscopy, structural examination employing X-ray diffraction, and elemental analysis utilizing X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The integration of the MoO3 nanointerfaced sensor resulted in an enhanced electrochemical response during cyclic voltammetry, amperometry, and differential pulse voltammetry, attributed to its catalytic activity, electron transfer capability, and conductive nano-bioenvironment. The sensor demonstrated a detection potential of 0.927 V (vs Ag/AgCl) within a rapid response time of less than 50 s. Furthermore, the linear range of detection spanned from 10 to 70 µM, with a limit of detection as low as 194 ± 1.25 nM. The remarkable anti-interference properties of the MoO3 material further highlight the applicability of the fabricated sensor in real sample analysis. Successful validation of the developed sensor was achieved through the detection of CDH in water samples obtained from the Kaveri River.