Research Information System
Journal of Food Composition and Analysis, vol.143, 2025 (SCI-Expanded)
This study aimed to produce a simpler and more effective method for extracting and pre-concentrating cadmium using magnetic Cu2O nanocubes-based dispersive solid-phase microextraction. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy, scanning transmission electron microscopy, and X-ray diffraction analysis were used to characterize Cu2O nanocubes. A “one-factor-at-a-time” method was used to optimize several variables, such as pH (7.0), eluent type (1 M HNO3), mass of Cu2O nanocubes (30 mg), and adsorption (60 sec.)-desorption (90 sec.) contact times. The approach that was optimized demonstrated a preconcentration factor of 13.8, detection limit of 0.12 µg L−1, and quantification limit of 0.38 µg L−1 with a linear range of 0.38 µg L−1 – 390 µg L−1. Two separate certified reference materials were used to confirm the developed method's accuracy. Cu2O nanocubes were used as adsorbent in solid phase extraction for the first time in this study. Due to the high surface area resulting from its geometric shape, extraction with a very low amount of adsorbent became possible. The adsorption-desorption cycle of only 2.5 min is a different characteristic that makes this study stand out. In addition, trace levels of cadmium can be selectively separated from complex matrices such as food samples.