Activity augmentation of a functionalized 2D conjugated polymer matrix with iron vanadate nano-bulbs for real-time detection of levofloxacin

Abstract

In this study, we present a pioneering approach for the electrochemical detection of levofloxacin (LVO) in human blood serum utilising iron vanadate nano-bulbs FeVO₄ (FVO) decorated on a two-dimensional conjugated polymer matrix g-C₃N₄ (CN). The iron vanadate nano-bulbs are synthesised via a simple hydrothermal approach and integrated into a 2D conjugated polymer matrix, providing a high surface area and numerous active sites for improved sensing of LVO with a detection limit of 0.06 μM, a broader linear range of 0.25–320 μM, and high sensitivity and selectivity towards LVO. The findings highlight the significant role of vanadium in electrocatalysis, unveiling the sensor's enhanced electrochemical properties and repeatability, reproducibility and stability. This work underscores the potential of FVO nano-bulbs in developing efficient and sensitive electrochemical sensors for pharmaceutical monitoring, providing a valuable tool for real-time drug toxicity analysis.