Molecularly Imprinted Polymers (MIP) Combined with Raman Spectroscopy for Selective Detection of Δ⁹-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)
Date
2023-08-10
Authors
Yeganegi, Arian
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Abstract
This thesis presents the development of a proof-of-concept sensor for the sensitive and selective detection of Trans-Δ⁹-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) using a molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) synthesized with a THC template. The sensor combines MIP technology with Raman spectroscopy to achieve label-free monitoring of THC based on a single identifying Raman peak. The MIP sensor exhibits a prominent peak at 1614 cm-1 in the Raman spectrum, attributed to the THC target molecule, enabling the selective quantification of bound THC with a low detection limit of 250 ppm. Comparative studies with a non-imprinted polymer (NIP) control demonstrate higher sensitivity of the MIP to the THC target molecule (67% higher average intensity), confirming the presence of THC-specific recognition sites within the synthesized MIP material. Additionally, the selectivity of the MIP-based sensor is demonstrated by analyzing the Raman spectrum of MIP exposed to Cannabidiol (CBD), ethanol, and acetone.
Description
Keywords
Molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP), Raman spectroscopy, THC detection