Remote electrochemical biosensor for field monitoring of phenolic compounds

A submersible probe for monitoring of phenolic compounds at large sample/instrument distances is described. A specially designed device, comprising a specially designed tyrosinase enzyme electrode coupled to a 50-ft long shielded cable (via environmentally sealed connectors), is used. Challenges associated with the adaptation of enzyme electrodes to remote sensing are addressed. Variables relevant to field operations are explored and discussed. The combination of biocatalytic recognition and amperometric transduction offers highly selective measurements of micromolar concentrations of phenolic substrates in untreated river and groundwater samples. The concept seems suited for the remote monitoring of other environmentally relevant compounds via a judicious selection of the biorecognition element.