Fast and ultra-sensitive voltammetric detection of lead ions by two-dimensional graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) nanolayers as glassy carbon electrode modifier

Abstract

Recently, graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) has attracted great interest for photo(electro)chemical applications such as sensing, solar energy exploitation, photocatalysis, and hydrogen generation. This paper presents the potential application and benefits of g-C3N4 nanolayers as a green and highly efficient electrode modifier for the detection of trace lead ions in drinking water and urban dust samples. Carbon nitride nanosheets with a thickness of ∼6 A° and lateral of 100–150 nm were prepared through high-temperature polymerization of melamine followed by sonication-assisted liquid exfoliation. A glassy carbon electrode (GCE) was modified by a thin layer of g-C3N4 through drop casting and used for fast and sensitive (ppb range) detection of lead ions. It is shown that the g-C3N4 nanosheets have a total specific area of about 45 m2/g, causing an increase in the microscopic surface area of GCE by a factor of 20 in comparison to the bar electrode; hence, enhanced peak current intensity in voltammetric studies is attained. Differential pulse anodic stripping voltammetry indicates two linear anodic stripping responses of 2.4–7.5 ng mL−1 (R2 = 0.983) and 10.0–1000.0 ng mL−1 (R2 = 0.993). These ranges fulfill the requirements of the U.S. EPA and WHO standards for the quality control of drinking water. Measurements on urban dusts and drinking water also indicate the potential of the modified electrode for fast and ultrasensitive detection of lead ions in real samples. The advantages and figure of merit of the developed electrode for lead sensing are addressed.