Dual‐mode sensing biopolymer membrane impregnated with molybdenum for ethylene detection and monitoring of fruits

Abstract In this study, a dual‐mode sensing biopolymer membrane employing chitosan (CS), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), and ammonium molybdate (AM) was developed for optical and electrochemical detection of ethylene. The biopolymer composite was characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infra‐red (FTIR), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM).The relationship between ethylene concentration and optical/electrochemical response was investigated. XRD analysis showed enhanced ionic conduction, supported by SEM images showing uniform pore distribution within the synthesized membrane, facilitating effective gas interaction with Molybdenum. The increased FTIR peak intensities with higher amount of molybdenum in the membrane indicates enhanced molecular interactions. Applied to a microelectrode chip, the membrane exhibits a measurable electrochemical response with oxidation peak appearing in cyclic voltammogram as Molybdenum ions undergo reduction upon ethylene exposure. Colorimetric measurements, based on CIELAB values, reveals visible color shift with increasing ethylene concentrations, particularly at 10% molybdenum impregnation. Ionic conductivity and total color difference exhibit parallel variation with ethylene concentrations. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy confirms molybdenum oxidation state shift from +6 to +5 in the membrane upon ethylene interaction. The inexpensive colorimetric method enables direct color change visualization in practical applications. The resulting dual‐functional biopolymer membrane shows adaptability and versatility by responding to both optical and electrochemical signals.