Development of solid-state electrochemiluminescence (ECL) sensor based on Ru(bpy)32+-encapsulated silica nanoparticles for the detection of biogenic polyamines

Abstract

A solid state electrochemiluminescence (ECL) sensor based on Ru(bpy)32+-encapsulated silica nanoparticles (RuNP) covalently immobilised on a screen printed carbon electrode has been developed and characterised. RuNPs were synthesised using water-in-oil microemulsion method, amino groups were introduced on their surface, and they were characterised by transmission electron microscopy. Aminated RuNPs were covalently immobilised on activate screen-printed carbon electrodes to form a solid state ECL biosensor. The biosensor surfaces were characterised using electrochemistry and scanning electron microscopy, which showed that aminated nanoparticles formed dense 3D layers on the electrode surface thus allowing immobilisation of high amount of Ru(bpy)32++. The developed sensor was used for ECL detection of biogenic polyamines, namely spermine, spermidine, cadaverine and putrescine. The sensor exhibited high sensitivity and stability.