Design, fabrication, and application of electrochemical sensors for microplastic detection: a state-of-the-art review and future perspectives

Electrochemical sensors have emerged as promising tools for detecting and quantifying microplastics in environmental samples, offering significant advantages in sensitivity, selectivity, and miniaturization potential for onsite monitoring. As microplastic pollution becomes an increasingly urgent global concern, the development of rapid, sensitive, and cost-effective detection methods is crucial. This comprehensive review systematically examines recent advancements in electrochemical detection methods for microplastics through critical evaluation of recently published studies, while providing detailed coverage of microplastic properties, conventional detection limitations, and electrochemical sensor principles. Key strategies include the use of nanomaterials, molecular imprinting, and surface modifications, with approaches such as electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, particle-impact electrochemistry, and machine learning-enhanced systems achieving detection limits as low as 10^–11 M. Comparative analysis reveals that electrochemical sensors offer superior performance in real-time monitoring and field deployment compared to conventional methods, though challenges remain in multitarget detection, environmental robustness in high-ionic-strength matrices, and standardization across platforms. The integration of artificial intelligence and advanced fabrication techniques positions electrochemical sensors as transformative tools for comprehensive microplastic monitoring, with future research focusing on multianalyte capabilities, environmental adaptability, and standardized protocols for widespread implementation in environmental protection strategies.