Graphite micropowder modified with 4-amino-2,6-diphenylphenol supported on basal plane pyrolytic graphite electrodes:: Micro sensing platforms for the indirect electrochemical detection of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol in saliva

Graphite micropowder has been modified with 4-amino-2,6-diphenylphenol immobilized onto a basal plane pyrolytic graphite electrode and explored for the indirect electrochemical sensing of Delta(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol in artificial saliva. The protocol is based on the electrochemical formation of quinoneimine which specifically reacts with Delta(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol resulting in the loss of the quinoneimine which can be monitored via voltammetry. It is demonstrated that Delta(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol can be detected in artificial saliva over the micromolar range. Such a protocol may find application in screening for drug abuse.