Abstract: Molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP MAA-βCD) with 2,4-dichlorophenol (2,4-DCP) and methacrylic acid functionalized β-Cyclodextrin (MAA-βCD) as the template molecule and the functional monomer respectively, was prepared and used in molecular imprinted-solid phase extraction (MISPE) for the extraction of phenols (2,4-dichlorophenol, 2-chlorophenol, 4-chloro-3-methylphenol, 4-chlorophenol, 2,4,6-trichlorophenol and 2-nitrophenol) from water samples. The MISPE method was optimized prior to the determination using gas chromatography coupled with a flame ionization detector (GC-FID). Under the optimized conditions, the MIP MAA-βCD sorbent showed good linearity (0.01-12 mgL-1), low limits of detection (0.14-0.75 μgL-1) and good repeatability (RSD 2.3-3.6%, n =3). Good recoveries were obtained in the range of 97-115% for tap water and between 88-103% for river water. The developed MIP MAA-βCD SPE was then compared with other adsorbents. The unique properties of β-CD and presence of imprinted cavities explains the higher extraction recoveries obtained for phenols when using MIP MAA-βCD SPE
Author keywords: Solid phase extraction, Molecular imprinted polymer, β-cyclodextrin, Phenols, Water samples