Graphene quantum dot based molecular imprinted electrochemical based zearalenone determination

In this thesis study, an electrochemical sensor was developed using the molecular imprinting technique based on graphene quantum dots (GQDs) for the determination of Zearalenone (ZEN), a mycotoxin that poses a risk to food safety due to its estrogenic effects. GQDs significantly enhanced the performance of the sensor by increasing the conductivity and active surface area of the electrode, thanks to their large surface area and excellent electrical conductivity. Molecular imprinting was employed to create specific recognition sites for the ZEN molecule, and the sensor was optimized to exhibit selective, sensitive, and reusable properties. The sensor was characterized using electrochemical techniques, while structural analyses were supported by FTIR and SEM techniques. The results demonstrated that the GQD-based molecularly imprinted electrochemical sensor offers an effective alternative for the selective and sensitive detection of ZEN. This study presents an innovative approach that integrates nanotechnology and sensor science, aiming to contribute to the design of next-generation sensors applicable in food safety, environmental monitoring, and biomedical diagnostics.