Dual-template molecularly imprinted electrochemical sensor based on foamed iron-based MOF for simultaneous and specific detection of α-arbutin and β-arbutin in cosmetics

We used a simple and environmentally friendly method to prepare electrode material, and the structure of an iron-based metal–organic framework, MOF(Fe), which was modified by l-lysine and ammonia to form a bubble-like hollow interior structure. Benzoquinone was added to increase the crystallization rate in order to maximize the specific surface area. Finally, electrode sensitization material with a satisfactory specific surface area (1840.52 m2/g) and excellent conductivity was synthesized. An electrochemical sensor using the double-template molecular imprinting method was constructed and facilitated the simultaneous specific detection of α-Ar and β-Ar with a detection limit of 6.667 × 10−13 mol/L. This sensor can be applied to the detection of whitening cosmetics.