FeCu3-LDH/MoS2 superlattice-modified carbon paper as an integrated sensor for the sensitive detection of nitrofurantoin in various samples†

Nitrofurantoin (NFT) is a broad-spectrum antibiotic used for the treatment of humans, poultry and livestock. Improper use and discharge of NFT can cause serious harm to human health and the environment. Electrochemical analysis has been widely employed in antibiotic detection because of its advantages of simple operation, high sensitivity and rapid response. However, few studies have reported the detection of NFT using this method owing to the limited availability of electrode materials. Layered double hydroxides (LDHs) have attracted widespread attention because of their unique structure and chemical properties as well as the advantages of homogeneous dispersion of laminate elements and adjustable chemical composition. However, their application in NFT detection has rarely been reported due to the inherent defects of weak conductivity and poor stability. To better use LDHs and overcome their shortcomings, a series of superlattice FeCu₃-LDH/MoS₂ materials were successfully designed using stripping and self-assembly strategies. FeCu₃-LDH/MoS₂ modified carbon paper (CP) was used as an integrated sensor for NFT detection. Benefiting from the structural advantages of the superlattice material and dual-synergistic catalysis between the LDH and MoS₂, FeCu₃-LDH/MoS₂/CP (1 : 1) exhibited highly sensitive NFT detection, with a low detection limit. FeCu₃-LDH/MoS₂/CP (1 : 1) could also be successfully applied for NFT determination in real samples, such as human serum, lake water and commercialized drugs, with satisfactory recovery. This work not only provides an effective electrochemical detection method for NFT determination, but also broadens the application of LDHs in the electrochemical field and lays a foundation for the controllable preparation of electrochemical sensors based on superlattice materials.