Abstract
Due to the role of phosphate (PO43−) as an indicator of eutrophication pollution, developing low-cost and high-performance approaches to detect it turns to be of great significance. Herein, we developed a highly sensitive and specific colorimetric sensor for PO43− determination via utilizing Zr4+ to synergistically inhibit the peroxidase-like activity of Fe3O4 nanocubes. The decoration of hydrophilic 3,4-dihydroxyhydrocinnamic acid (DHCA) on Fe3O4 endows it with enhanced ability to catalyze the 3,3′,5,5′-tetramethylbenzidine (TMB) chromogenic reaction. Because of electrostatic interaction, Zr4+ is easy to be adsorbed onto the negatively charged Fe3O4-DHCA nanozyme. When PO43− is added, it can interact with Zr4+ and form a coating on Fe3O4-DHCA surface, significantly suppressing its peroxidase-mimicking activity. As a result, the TMB chromogenic reaction is seriously inhibited in the presence of PO43−. Based on this strategy, PO43− in the wide scope of 0.066–33.3 μM could be linearly determined, providing a detection limit down to 49.8 nM. Thanks to the strong and specific interaction between Zr4+ and PO43−, the colorimetric sensor could be employed to detect PO43− with favorable selectivity. Reliable analysis of the target in practical water was also verified by our assay, indicating its great potential as a simple but efficient tool for environmental monitoring.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
