The determination of p-cresol in chloroform with an enzyme electrode used in the organic phase

An enzyme electrode that operates in chloroform is described. Polyphenol oxidase (tyrosinase; EC.1.14.18.1) is used to detect p-cresol via electrochemical reduction of the product, 4-methyl- 1,2-benzoquinone, at a graphite foil electode. The response is linear for p-cresol concentrations of 0–0.10 mM, with a limit of detection of 1 μM. After an initial rise from 1.9 μA to 4.0 μA in the first three assays, the response of the electrode to 0.10 mM p-cresol remained stable for twelve consecutive assays ($\text{x}$=4.6, SD=0.49). After intermittent usage for 204 days with appropriate storage, the enzyme electrode remained active. The electrode is sensitive to a broad range of phenols. The feasibility of detecting p-cresol contamination of water is demonstrated.