Graphite micropowder has been modified with 4-amino-2,6-diphenylphenol immobilized onto a basal plane pyrolytic graphite electrode and explored for the indirect electrochemical sensing of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol in artificial saliva. The protocol is based on the electrochemical formation of quinoneimine which specifically reacts with Δ9- tetrahydrocannabinol resulting in the loss of the quinoneimine which can be monitored via voltammetry. It is demonstrated that Δ9- tetrahydrocannabinol can be detected in artificial saliva over the micromolar range. Such a protocol may find application in screening for drug abuse. © 2006 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA.
