Electrochemical Biosensors for Chemical Warfare Agents

Since the introduction of modern CWAs at the beginning of 20th century, there has been a continuous interest in the development of robust and reliable analytical tools for the detection of these agents, to provide early alarm in case of terroristic attacks, as well as to monitor their presence in the environment and prevent contamination. Nevertheless, some powerful analytical techniques, including chromatographic methods and mass spectrometry, may not be well suitable for field applications and fast early warning, due to the lack of portability, power requirements, long response time and expensive procedures. In this context, electrochemical (bio)sensors offer advantages in terms of high sensitivity, miniaturization, integration, low cost, and power requirements. The aim of this chapter is to highlight the important issues of electrochemical (bio)sensors for fast and cost-effective detection of CWAs in the field, considering the main advantages and limitations of this technology, and the last trends in nanotechnology, lab-on-chip, and functional materials.