Molecular imprinting is a technique for introducing selectivity towards a specific compound, or a class of compounds, during the creation of the sorbent material. This is achieved by using a template molecule chosen to be representative of the 3-dimensional shape and functional chemistries of the target compound, or class, of interest. Functional monomers are added, which form complexes with the template molecule. A polymer is then formed to include the functional monomers, creating a mould around the template. Once the template molecule is removed, the polymer is left with imprints of the molecule (binding sites) that complement the 3-D shape and functional groups of its intended target molecules. See schematic Making a MIP.

The MIP is comparable to a man-made antibody or receptor in terms of selectivity, but has the stability of a polymer material. Because MIPs are highly cross-linked polymers, they are very stable, even when used with extreme pHs, a wide variety of organic solvents and various temperatures.

Cleaner Extracts; Lower Detection Limits:

Due to the specificity engineered into MIP production, MIPs exhibit stronger binding affinity toward their target analyte(s) than to sample matrix components. Consequently, matrix components and other undesirables can be washed away during the sample extraction process, leading to:

• Cleaner extracts, reduced background interference

• Lower chemical noise

• Lower detection limits/improved sensitivity

• Consistently high target analyte recovery

• Elimination of ion-suppression in LC/MS applications

Simple and Cost-Effective:

Since sample preparation is often a time-consuming & rate limiting step, MIPs also provide significant economic benefits by enabling:

• Reduced sample volumes

• Fewer sample clean-up steps

• Reduced solvent consumption

• Shorter sample preparation time

• Lower labour cost

More information is available:

An extensive collection of literature is available, including:

• Product Bulletins for specific target analytes, or classes

• Application Notes for specific matrices

• Published Papers

• Poster Presentations

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