Low‐cost conductive films based on graphite and cellulose acetate as promising electroanalytical platforms

Abstract

AbstractConducting films were produced by incorporating 35, 50, and 60 wt.%. of graphite in cellulose acetate. The graphite contents showed to be of pivotal importance to the properties of the materials, mainly on the electrochemical performance. Thermal analyses indicated the graphite hinders the crystallization process of cellulose acetate and increases the hydrophobicity of the films. Scanning electron microscopy provided evidence of laminated graphite structures well‐dispersed in the polymeric matrix and exhibited a more porous aspect surface for the 50% G/Composite, which led to a higher surface area obtained by the N2 adsorption/desorption technique. This composite also had a better electrochemical response for ferrocyanide ion. The fabrication method was reproducible, which was associated with the structural uniformity of the resulting material. In addition, the conductive films are ready to use after production, precluding the need for any surface pretreatment. Moreover, the proposed sensor showed analytical potentiality for dopamine and hydroquinone determination, extending the possibilities for new electroanalytical applications.