Detection of bisphenol A using an opal photonic crystal sensor

A new opal photonic crystal sensor (OPCS) that allows the detection of label-free bisphenol A (BPA) is proposed in the current study. The concept of developing photonic-based sensors using combined photonic crystal technology and molecular imprinting techniques is introduced. First batches of the BPA-imprinted monodisperse PMMA spheres with a diameter of 220 (±5) nm were prepared based on the suspension polymerization, so numerous nanocavities derived from BPA imprinting were distributed in the PMMA spheres. The liquid monodisperse microspheres were made into a polymerized crystalline colloidal array (PCCA) opal photonic crystal sensor. The inherent high affinity of the nanocavities distributed in the sphere allows OPCS to recognize BPA specifically. The sensor is characterized by a 3D-ordered interconnected lattice structure. Between the monospheres, there are well-arranged pores allowing the target molecules to embed and transport. As a result, changes in diffraction intensity which are related to BPA concentrations can be observed with the sensor. The detection ranges of OPCS are at 1 ng/ml–1 μg/ml level. The new sensory system has high selectivity of the target molecules in their natural forms, is easy to use, and costs low. Overall, the proposed approach provides a versatile analytical system for the establishment of a new sensor for the detection of endocrine-disrupting chemicals.