Portable Miniaturized IoT-Enabled Point-of-Care Device for Electrochemical Sensing of Zopiclone in Cocktails

Abstract

This study proposes a portable and IoT-based electrochemical point-of-care sensing device for detecting zopiclone in cocktails. The system utilizes an electrochemical laccase biosensor and a potentiostat, offering a low-cost and portable device for detecting this sedative drug in cocktails. The sensor characterization experiments demonstrated the linear behavior of the oxidation and reduction currents for each of the targeted concentrations of zopiclone, enabling their detection and quantification even when mixed with an interfering substance. The proposed system could be used for the in situ analysis of cocktails, providing a valuable tool for monitoring the presence of hypnotic drugs in various social and clinical settings. The study utilized materials and reagents, including zopiclone, lab-made lemon juice, lab-made tequila, and lab-made triple sec, all prepared with reactants obtained in Bogotá, Colombia. The potentiostat used in the system was designed to manage cyclic voltammetry measurements. The electrochemical cells’ durability and longevity were also tested and characterized, with all electrodes undergoing 200 tests and their performance degradation varying according to the molecule used. The study concludes that the proposed system offers a valuable tool for detecting and monitoring pharmaceutical substances in various interfering ingredients that build up cocktails. Further research and application of this system can help address the global concern surrounding the administration of hypnotic substances to unknowing consumers through food or drinks to enable robbery and sexual assault.

Keywords

• electrochemical analysis
• date-rape drug detection
• zopiclone
• biosensor