Fluorescence enhancement novel green analytical method for paraquat herbicide quantification based on immobilization on clay.

A new green method was developed for the quantification of paraquat (PQ) in water samples based on the fluorescence emission enhancement of the herbicide signal after adsorption on sodium montmorillonite clay (MMT). Radiant emission processes are favored by increasing the molecular rigidity of the PQ since it adopts a planar position between the nano-sheets of the MMT. The advantages of the use of this clay are nontoxic, low cost and found in abundance in natural reserves.