A Novel Electrochemical Biosensor Fabricated from Areca Nut Biomass for Sustainable Environmental Monitoring

This study reports the development of an electrochemical biosensor that utilizes bioactive compounds extracted from Areca catechu L. to enable sustainable environmental monitoring. The primary objective was to establish a green, cost-effective sensing platform by leveraging naturally occurring alkaloids and tannins that enhance electron transfer and analyte binding. Fabrication involved solvent-based extraction followed by drop-casting the extract onto screen-printed carbon electrodes (SPCEs). Electrochemical characterization via cyclic voltammetry (CV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) confirmed high sensitivity (R² > 0.99) and a stable signal intensity distribution (mean = 218.325), indicating reliable performance across analyte concentrations. Regression modeling using exponential, Gaussian, and error functions validated reproducibility and precision. The resulting biosensor offers a practical, biodegradable alternative for detecting heavy metals and organic pollutants, contributing to environmentally responsible diagnostics aligned with the global sustainability goals.