We present the development of an electrochemical paper-based analytical device (ePAD) for the detection of methamphetamine. Methamphetamine is a stimulant that young people use as an addictive narcotic, and it must be detected quickly since it may be hazardous. The suggested ePAD has the advantages of being simple, affordable, and recyclable. This ePAD was developed by immobilizing a methamphetamine-binding aptamer onto Ag-ZnO nanocomposite electrodes. The Ag-ZnO nanocomposites were synthesized via a chemical method and were further characterized via scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and UV-vis spectrometry in terms of their size, shape, and colloidal activity. The developed sensor showed a limit of detection of about 0.1 μg/mL, with an optimum response time of about 25 s, and its extensive linear range was between 0.01 and 6 μg/mL. The application of the sensor was recognized by spiking different beverages with methamphetamine. The developed sensor has a shelf life of about 30 days. This cost-effective and portable platform might prove to be highly successful in forensic diagnostic applications and will benefit those who cannot afford expensive medical tests.
Keywords: detection; electrochemical; methamphetamine; recreational drug; sensors.