Ru/ZrO₂@porous carbon nanocomposite as an efficient electrochemical platform for highly sensitive determination of caffeic acid phenethyl Ester in food and biological matrices
Microchemical Journal, vol.228, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
- Publication Type: Article / Article
- Volume: 228
- Publication Date: 2026
- Doi Number: 10.1016/j.microc.2026.119008
- Journal Name: Microchemical Journal
- Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, BIOSIS, Chemical Abstracts Core, Chimica, Index Islamicus, Academic Search Ultimate (EBSCO), Engineering Source (EBSCO)
- Keywords: Caffeic acid phenethyl Ester, Differential pulse voltammetry, Electrochemical sensor, Real sample analysis, Ru/ZrO2@PC nanocomposite
- Akdeniz University Affiliated: Yes
Abstract
Caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) is a bioactive phenolic compound mainly found in propolis and known for its antioxidant and health-promoting properties. However, its reliable determination in complex food and biological matrices is challenging due to low concentrations and matrix interferences. In this study, a highly sensitive electrochemical sensor based on a Ru/ZrO₂@PC nanocomposite was developed for CAPE detection. The nanocomposite was immobilized on a glassy carbon electrode to create an efficient sensing interface. Cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy confirmed enhanced conductivity, increased electroactive surface area, and faster electron-transfer kinetics. Using differential pulse voltammetry, CAPE was quantified over a wide linear range of 0.005–6.0 μM with a detection limit of 0.49 nM. The sensor applicability was successfully demonstrated in human plasma, urine, propolis extract, and honey, with results consistent with HPLC–DAD analysis. The proposed sensor offers a rapid and reliable tool for CAPE analysis in food and biological samples.