Facile synthesis of CeO2·CuO-decorated biomass-derived carbon nanocomposite for sensitive detection of catechol by electrochemical technique

Abstract

Catechol (CC) is renowned for its ability to interact with a wide range of biomolecules, a trait that raises potential health concerns. Consequently, herein we achieved a significant milestone by developing an electrochemical CC sensor with improved performance such as exceptional sensitivity and selectivity. In this CC sensor we used Cerium (IV) oxide-doped Copper (II) oxide decorated biomass-derived carbon (BC) nanocomposite, known as CeO2·CuO@BC as the sensing material. This material has been artfully integrated into the modification of a glassy carbon electrode (GCE), showcasing the synergy of advanced materials and electrode design. The efficacy of the CeO2·CuO@BC nanocomposite as a sensing material underwent rigorous evaluation through comprehensive characterization techniques such as X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectrum, Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FE-SEM), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), and Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS). As a result, we developed a sensor that can quantify CC concentrations across an extensive dynamic range, spanning from 0.5 μM to a remarkable 8470 μM in a neutral phosphate buffer solution. This sensor, boasting a sensitivity of 0.4171 μAμM−1cm−2, coupled with an impressive detection limit of a mere 0.035 μM, stands as a testament to its superior performance. Its exceptional sensitivity and selectivity allow precise catechol level detection in real-world samples, making it invaluable for analytical applications. Beyond its analytical prowess, the sensor demonstrates remarkable durability through excellent reproducibility, repeatability, and stability. This robustness underscores its reliability, establishing it as an indispensable and highly efficient electrode for accurate CC determination across various practical scenarios.