Fluorescence sensor based on molecularly imprinted polymer and bimetallic Tb/Ce MOF for sensitive detection of thiamethoxam

With the extensive use of neonicotinoid pesticides like thiamethoxam (TMX), there is a growing need to develop sensitive and selective methods to monitor its residue levels. In this study, we developed a fluorescence sensor based on terbium/cerium metal-organic framework combined with molecularly imprinted polymer (Tb/Ce MOF@MIP) for TMX detection. Through systematic optimization of synthesis conditions and detection conditions, the sensor was successfully employed for the determination of TMX, exhibiting high selectivity, along with a linear detection range of 1–50 μM and a limit of detection of 0.8 μM. In addition, the practical applicability of the sensor was validated in real samples including apples, tea, and soil, and the accuracy was assessed through recovery experiments.