Functionalization of PEDOT-N₃ films with cyclodextrin hosts for sensing application

Abstract

Cyclodextrins (CDs) are one of the most prominent hosts, which offer well studied molecular recognition properties making CDs perfect candidates for sensing applications.[1] Commonly, α-, ß- and γ-CDs are used separately in sensors neglecting the high discrimination potential between the different cavity sizes. In this work, a comparative study of the sensor performance of α-, ß- and γ-CD derivatives onto a conductive polymer film is conducted. While immobilization of CDs traditionally occurs over multiple bonds, only recently a new selective strategy to anchor CD derivatives via on-surface copper-catalyzed azide-alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC) has been developed.[2] For this purpose, the synthesis of selectively modified α-, ß- and γ-CD derivatives bearing an alkyne terminal group will be pursued. The mono-substitution allows an ordered and selective conjugation of CDs onto modified Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT). The successful click reaction will be shown by cyclic voltammetry, contact angle and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Additionally, the sensor behavior of α-, ß-, and γ-CD functionalized interfaces will be investigated and compared with representative analytes. The results of this work highlight the high potential of covalently mono-anchored α-, ß- and γ-CDs on a conductive polymer film in sensing