Dual Fiber Optic Capillary Probe for Fluorescence Detection Using Molecularly Imprinted Polymers

摘要

An optical fiber probe designed for use with molecularly imprinted polymers (MIP) is detailed and evaluated with respect to fluorescence sensitivity enhancements. MIPs are polymeric materials that are selective towards a molecule included in the mixture during the formation of the polymer. MIPs allow the selective analysis of a single analyte contained in a complex mixture through the interactions of the analyte with analyte-specific cavities formed within the polymer matrix. The optical design involves a dual optical fiber probe coupled to a transparent capillary for enhanced fluorescence excitation and emission collection. The inner capillary surface is coated with the MIP to select the analyte of choice while the capillary serves to enhance the fluorescence signal obtained. The selectivity and sensitivity of the MIP probe toward anthracene in water is discussed.