For electrochemical biointerfaces and clinical sensing applications, electrode materials with improved interfacial charge-transfer properties are of increasing interest. The present work, a NiS2/activated carbon (NiS2/AC) composite was used to fabricate an electrochemical sensor in which the activated carbon was prepared by a sustainable valorization approach using chayote peel waste. The developed platform was used for sensitive determination of sulfinpyrazone (SPZ), a drug belonging to uricosuric group which uses in the ailment of gout. The sensor was specifically developed for exact quantification of SPZ in biological matrices relevant for clinical monitoring and optimization of doses. Comprehensive characterization of the NiS2/AC composite was carried out using Raman spectroscopy and electron microscopy (SEM, TEM) methods that confirmed that crystalline NiS2 was homogeneously dispersed in a porous carbon matrix. The NiS2/AC electrode showed the enhanced electrochemical activity for the oxidation of SPZ, which allowed sensitive detection by square-wave voltammetry at the LOD and LOQ of 4.73 nM and 15.78 nM, respectively. The sensor also increased the selectivity for detection of SPZ in the presence of uric acid (UA) with an excellent signal to be separated from the oxidation peaks of uric acid with an LOD of 1.32 nM, and LOQ 4.40 nM of SPZ. The modified electrode exhibited good operational stability and acceptable reproducibility and repeatability. The analytical performance was also validated using UV-Vis spectrophotometer. Practical utility of the electrochemical sensing was demonstrated by quantitative determination of synthetic blood serum and urine samples with satisfactory recoveries after the determination of the SPZ. In summary, the NiS2/ACP is an ultra-sensitive, reliable and cost-effective electrochemical platform for clinical and bioanalytical applications in the gout management field in which activated carbon from chayote peels is used.
Abstract The dinitroaromatic compound 2,4-dinitrotoluene (2,4-DNT) is a commonly utilized intermediate in the manufacture of explosives and various other industrial processes. Its discharge into the environment poses major health concerns to people. Consequently, it is essential to develop quick, accurate, and sensitive detection methods for environmental monitoring. We report the development of a highly sensitive electrochemical sensor (ECS) for the sensing of 2,4-DNT based on advanced nanostructured materials. The zinc-based metal–organic framework-5 (Zn-MOF-5) and boron-doped calcium oxide (B-CaO) were synthesized using facile methods and characterized employing multiple analytical methods to confirm the morphology, crystallinity, and elemental composition. These nanostructured materials were integrated into a modified carbon paste electrode (CPE) to enhance EC performance through increased surface area and improved conductivity. EC measurements demonstrated efficient electrocatalytic reduction of 2,4-DNT with distinct reduction peaks associated with nitro functional groups. Electrochemical characterization of the fabricated sensor was carried out using cyclic voltammetry (CV), square wave voltammetry (SWV), amperometry, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The developed nanocomposite showed a linear response over the concentration range of 1.0–80.0 μM, excellent analytical performance, high sensitivity, and low detection limits of 9.9 × 10–8 M (peak 1) and 6.9 × 10–8 M (peak 2). SWV measurements revealed high sensitivity and efficient electrocatalytic reduction of 2,4-DNT with distinct reduction peaks associated with its nitro functional groups. The nanocomposite sensor B-CaO/Zn-MOF-5/CPE showed strong selectivity toward 2,4-DNT in the presence of common interfering species. Furthermore, the sensor demonstrated successful detection of 2,4-DNT in food, soil, and water samples, highlighting its practical applicability for environmental monitoring and safety-related analyses. The proposed platform offers a sustainable and cost-effective scheme for the development of advanced ECS for nitroaromatic explosive contaminants.
ABSTRACT The spread of antimicrobial resistance through antibiotic contamination in aquatic environments is increasingly threatening to ecosystem health and public safety. Despite the great variety of results obtained with metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) in the photo catalytic degradation of antibiotics, there has been a gap in the literature concerning establishing a synoptic view that combines experimental, computational and data‐driven approaches. This review is a systematic overview of MOF based photocatalysts or photo catalytic composites which are used to remove antibiotics and highlights the key classes of MOFs, such as Zr‐, Fe‐, Cu/Co‐, Ti‐, and ZIF‐based photo catalytic materials, their distinguishing structural characteristics compared to “traditional” photocatalysts, and an understanding of the mechanism of antibiotic removal through the combination of adsorption and photocatalytic degradation. Different heterojunction structures, such as Schottky heterojunction, Type‐II heterojunction, Z‐scheme, and S‐scheme are quantitatively evaluated. The review also brings together computational works performed by both Density Functional Theory (DFT) and COMSOL multiphysics simulations and artificial intelligence/machine learning (AI/ML) models. Practical challenges, including catalyst stability, recyclability, intermediate toxicity, and applicability in real water, are addressed with targeted recommendations. This work aims to serve as an integrated roadmap for the rational design of next‐generation MOF photocatalysts for scalable antibiotic remediation.
Metal oxide-based modifiers have been identified as a promising material to improve the overall sensitivity, selectivity and versatility of electrochemical sensors. The electrochemical sensing of an anthranilic acid derivative called mefenamic acid (MFA) was investigated in the present work using copper doped tungsten oxide (Cu–WO3) as an electrode modifier and its application for possible clinical analysis. The Cu–WO3 modified carbon paste electrode (CPE) was developed and optimized for electrochemical sensing of MFA. The cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) presence improved the sensor’s sensitivity and selectivity while detecting MFA at trace levels which is essential for environmental and pharmaceutical analysis. The voltammetric study showed that the Cu–WO3/CTAB/CPE has great ability to electrochemically oxidize the MFA than bare and WO3 modified electrodes and the peak current of the reaction increased five times more than that of the unmodified electrode. The study exhibited impressive redox behaviour of MFA by the improvement of the characteristics of the surface and the effectiveness of charge transfer. The Cu–WO3/CTAB/CPE showed a low limit of detection (LOD) of 1.26 nM for a concentration range of 0.01–2.5 µM under optimal experimental conditions. The electrode was employed for the analysis of MFA in spiked urine samples and pharmaceutical tablets, achieving recovery rates of approximately 98
The study of high-performance sensing platforms is essential to achieve a high sensitivity for hormonal analytes, short response times, and cost-effectiveness. Nevertheless, standard analytical procedures, such as high-performance liquid chromatography, inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, and gas chromatography mass spectrometry (HPLC, ICP-MS, and GC-MS), are rather limited because their sensitivity is low at pM/nM concentrations, and the costs of these processes are too high. Moreover, modern sensor technology can be ill-equipped to selectively respond to intricate biological sample types, and there is no single standard used to quantify sensor signals. This review addresses these knowledge gaps by providing a comprehensive discussion on the role of biomass-derived materials as useful interfaces in electrochemical hormone sensing systems. To achieve improved results, we critically investigated the recent advances in the electrode modification process through biomass-based nanomaterials to promote electron transfer kinetics and interfacial engineering. The present article also discusses contemporary issues such as problems with stability, reproducibility, and selectivity in complex matrices. Furthermore, we highlighted some of the new approaches, such as the development of artificial intelligence, Internet of Things, and wearable point-of-care devices, to create the next generation hormone sensors. Overall, this current review is a comprehensive overview of biomass-derived materials, which have the prospect of enhancing surface modification at the advanced phase, AI integration, and the development of point-of-care diagnostics.
The studies reported a novel method for synthesizing hafnium-doped tungsten oxide as a sensing platform for clinically crucial serolytic agent, ambroxol. A carbon matrix decorated with synthesized nanostructures exhibited a synergistic effect, displaying high conductivity and a large surface area, which significantly enhanced the oxidative peak current compared to the bare carbon matrix. The analytical performance was evaluated electrochemically employing techniques such as cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and square wave voltammetry. Under a wide linear range, the key highlight was low detection limit of 2.55 nM. The fabricated electrode was highly selective, reproducible, and suitable for long-term usage with good stability. Reasonable recovery rates from pharmaceutical and urine samples showed the accuracy and reliability of the sensor for real-world sample analysis. The proposed work is promising in quantifying ambroxol at trace levels, representing a cost-effective and a direct method for clinical analysis and pharmaceutical quantification.
High-performing sensors are critical tools for the trace-level detection of hazardous chemicals, ensuring public health and environmental safety. In the present study, we report an electrochemical sensor based on synergistic properties of multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles for sensitive and selective detection of fungicide carbendazim (CRZ). The morphological and elemental composition of the MWCNTs/TiO2 nano-composite was determined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive Xray spectroscopy (EDX), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and atomic force microscopy (AFM). In addition, the electrochemical studies were executed using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), cyclic voltammetry (CV), and square wave voltammetry (SWV) techniques. The hybrid composite electrode effectively enhanced the electrochemical performance in the detection of CRZ, with a lower limit of detection of 3.49 nM within the linear range 0.1-10.0 & micro;M. Under optimized conditions, such as pH and accumulation time, spiked samples of soil and water were analyzed demonstrating high accuracy and good recovery. The fabricated electrode proposed had the least interference from the excipients, proving its practical applicability. The electrode was cost-effective ($0.12 USD/electrode) and time saving (require 30 min fabrication time), simple and easily renewable making it unique from other proposed sensors. The stability and wide range of pertinency of the fabricated electrode suggested it as a promising sensor platform for detecting CRZ.
In this study, a novel non-enzymatic electrochemical sensor for 2,6-Diaminopurine (DAP) was developed using a nickel phthalocyanine-modified carbon paste electrode (NiP/CPE). The electrochemical behaviour of DAP was investigated, revealing an irreversible oxidation mechanism involving a two-proton and two-electron transfer process. Optimization of the sensor showed that the addition of the anionic surfactant sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) significantly enhanced the peak current response. Under optimal conditions of pH 6.0, the sensor exhibited an extensive linear detection range from 5.0 x 10- 8 M to 1.0 x 10-3 M, with a low detection limit (LOD) of 1.6 nM and a quantification limit (LOQ) of 5.5 nM. The fabricated sensor was highly reproducible, preserving 97 % of the original signal, and selectivity in the presence of typical metal-ion interferents. The usefulness of the NiP/ SDS-CPE was confirmed through the practical analysis of DAP in spiked human urine and water samples, yielding an acceptable recovery rates. These findings indicate that the developed sensor is a valuable device for routine monitoring of DAP in clinical and environmental samples.
The unique features of conducting polymers have made them a promising material for sensing applications to a wide range of analytes, from small molecules such as glucose to large macromolecules, including whole cells and pathogens. Conducting polymers have opened new doors to the development of next-generation biosensors for point-of-care applications, which impact human health monitoring systems. This review provides a comprehensive overview of significant developments in conducting polymers designed for the electrochemical biosensing of biological components. A systematic perspective on conducting polymers, emphasising the importance of detecting biological components and the role of electrochemical methods, is presented. Furthermore, it includes discussing the synthesis, functionalization, and immobilisation strategies governing the sensor performance. Emerging developments in wearable and flexible devices, including depositing CP on flexible substrates and CP-hydrogels and hybrid systems, such as integration with MXenes, have been discussed. Finally, key challenges and future directions have been discussed to support translation to CP-based biosensors for practical applications.
The pesticide residues in the soil and the environment pose severe threats to the quality of agriculture and environmental safety. This underscored the importance of selective and sensitive methods of detection. The experiment aimed at developing a valid and very sensitive electrochemical sensor to detect the herbicide and algaecide, Diuron, a phenyl urea. A calcium-doped zinc oxide in the form of nanostructures was utilized as a modifier, for making a modified carbon paste electrode. The electrochemical conduct of the analyte was considered applying the techniques of cyclic voltammetry and square wave voltammetry. Physicochemical characterization of the synthesized calcium-doped zinc oxide nanoparticles confirmed the composition and nanostructured morphology, signifying the enhancement in the electrochemical response of Diuron. In addition to that, the electrochemical and thermodynamic parameters were also determined through the study of a scan rate and temperature variation. The electrokinetic experiments showed that there was a diffusion-controlled reaction consisting of two electrons and two protons. The analytical functioning of the sensor was evidenced by a low detection limit of 3.4 nanomolar with a wide linear detection range. The water and soil samples analysis ensured reliability and effectiveness in Diuron quantification, highlighting its practical use in agricultural and environmental monitoring.
Electrochemical biosensing has emerged as a fundament technology for health monitoring providing high sensitivity, quick response, and miniaturization potential applicable for point-of-care and wearable platforms. The development of nanomaterials design, signal amplification, and device integration over the last decade has made it possible to carry such sensors and monitor the health at any given time. This review highlights on the advancements in electrode fabrication and miniaturization, nanostructured materials, microfluidic systems, biorecognition elements, aptamer-based sensing through nanostructures, and signal amplification with functionalized materials. The aspects of biomarker recognition, electrode modification, in vivo or on-body signal amplification and the challenges and future outlook of scalable, reliable and sustainable biosensing platforms are being discussed.
This study offers a novel and sustainable approach to waste reuse and environmental remediation via the synthesis of calcium oxide (CaO) nanoparticles doped with tungsten oxide and copper (WO3/Cu) from the food waste eggshells for ultrasensitive electrochemical detection of epinephrine (EPI). EPI is also known as adrenaline, is a medication and hormone. Biowaste eggshell-derived CaO, obtained through calcination, serves as a sustainable support matrix for WO3 and Cu, enhancing its porous hierarchical structure to prevent particle agglomeration and increase active sites. The nanocomposite was analyzed using various techniques including fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, and Raman spectroscopy. The WO3/Cu:CaO was blended homogeneously with carbon paste electrode (CPE) for the sensitive detection and quantification of EPI in pH 7.4 phosphate buffer saline (PBS). The charge transfer resistance and other electrochemical impedance spectroscopy data of bare and modified CPE were used for identifying the efficiency of the fabricated electrode. Electrochemical studies evidenced a detection limit of 0.00246 mu M (S/N = 3) with a linearity range 0.1-1000 mu M. In the presence of metal ions and interfering excipients, the synthesised sensor's selectivity was examined. The real-sample analysis of human serum, urine, and breast milk achieved 98-99 % recovery values. The good recovery values, excellent reproducibility make WO3/Cu:CaO/CPE a suitable for analytical tool for non-enzymatic EPI detection at the nanolevel. The WO3/Cu:CaO nanocomposite modified CPE holds significant promise for future development of portable, low-cost, point-of-care devices to repurpose into high-performance sensing materials for rapid detection of EPI in biomedical field.
The threat of contamination has significantly enhanced in recent years due to the release of more toxins into the environment. Detecting these pollutants requires developing sensitive, selective, and cost-effective electroanalytical techniques for trace analysis. Our current research has created a modified carbon-based sensor to detect and measure fungicides such as thymol (TML) and dichlorophen (DCP). This sensor uses hydrated tungsten oxide (H-WO 3 ) with an immobilized cationic surfactant, cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB). We synthesized the H-WO 3 nanorods using the hydrothermal method and characterized them using various techniques. The excellent electrocatalytic behavior, high conductance, and large surface-to-volume ratio of the H-WO 3 have significantly improved the voltammetric signal of TML and DCP compared to the bare CPE. We used cyclic voltammetry to determine the optimal conditions, including supporting electrolytes, accumulation time, and CTAB concentration. We also analyzed scan rate and temperature effects to estimate the electrokinetic and thermodynamic activation parameters. The square wave voltammetry technique was applied to find trace levels of TML and DCP, and the developed electrode has a detection limit of 1.43 nM for TML and 7.39 nM for DCP. With this electrochemical method and electrode assembly, we can analyze various fungicides in the future.
With the rapid advancements in wearable sensor technology, healthcare is witnessing a transformative shift towards personalized and continuous monitoring. Wearable sensors designed for tracking human strain offer promising applications in rehabilitation, athletic performance, occupational health, and early disease detection. Recent advancements in the field have centered on the design optimization and miniaturization of wearable biosensors. Wireless communication technologies have facilitated the simultaneous, non-invasive detection of multiple analytes with high sensitivity and selectivity through wearable biosensors, significantly enhancing diagnostic accuracy. This review meticulously chronicles noteworthy advancements in wearable sensors tailored for healthcare and biomedical applications, spanning the current market landscape, challenges faced, and prospective trends, including multifunctional smart wearable sensors and integrated decision-support systems. The domain of flexible electronics has witnessed substantial progress over the past decade, particularly in flexible strain sensors, which are crucial for contemporary wearable and implantable devices. These innovations have broadened the scope of applications in human health monitoring and diagnostics. Continuous advancements in novel materials and device architectural methodologies aim to expand the utility of these sensors while meeting the increasingly stringent demands for enhanced sensing performance. This review explores the diverse array of wearable sensors—from piezoelectric, piezoresistive, and capacitive sensors to advanced optical and bioimpedance sensors—each distinguished by unique material properties and functionalities. We analyzed these technologies' sensitivity, accuracy, and response time, which were crucial for reliably capturing strain metrics in dynamic, real-world conditions. Quantitative performance comparisons across various sensor types highlighted their relative effectiveness, strengths, and limitations regarding detection precision, durability, and user comfort. Additionally, we discussed the current challenges in wearable sensor design, including energy efficiency, data transmission, and integration with machine learning models for enhanced data interpretation. Ultimately, this review emphasized the revolutionary potential of wearable strain sensors in advancing preventative healthcare and enabling proactive health management, ushering in an era where real-time health insights could lead to more timely interventions and improved health outcomes.
Triclosan (TCS), a compound used for its antibacterial properties, has recently been recognized as an environmental contaminant that can disrupt endocrine function. Currently, research into the presence of TCS in biological and environmental samples is a significant concern. This research aims to build a novel sensor to detect and quantitatively analyze TCS with carbon paste modified with activated carbon (AC) based on fish scales (FS) in the presence of cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB). The investigation included the assessment of TCS contaminated fruits, vegetables, soil, water, and hygiene products using a phosphate buffer saline (PBS) solution with a pH of 9.0. The proposed sensor resulted in higher oxidation currents response of TCS compared to a carbon paste electrode (CPE). The electrochemical properties of TCS were investigated cyclic voltammetry and square wave voltammetry. The fabricated bare and FSAC/CTAB/CPE was characterized by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The structural characteristics, crystallinity, and morphology of the synthesized FSAC were analyzed. In the optimum conditions, a linear relationship was obtained in the range of 5 mu M-20 mu M TCS, and the detection limit was 4.8 nM. The recovery results obtained with 5, 7, and 9 mu M of spiked concentrations of TCS in fruit juice, vegetables, water, and hygiene products ranged from 93.9 % to 108.0 %. With the integration of CTAB, the FSAC/CPE system showed good sensitivity and selectivity. This work demonstrates the possibility of exploiting FSAC for developing electrochemical sensing platforms, which have great potential in food safety and environmental monitoring.
The construction industry has seen significant growth in energy consumption over the past few years, primarily due to the demand for heating and cooling in buildings. This increase in energy use presents considerable environmental and economic challenges, making reducing energy consumption in homes a critical issue for many countries. A promising approach to improving energy performance in homes while reducing CO2 emissions is integrating phase change material (PCM)-based thermal energy storage (TES) systems into building designs. This review focuses on using bio-based phase change materials (BPCMs) in TES applications, which could contribute to lower energy consumption in the construction sector. Recent advancements in BPCM technology indicate that these substances, derived from renewable resources such as paraffin and fatty acids, can achieve thermal storage capacities similar to traditional PCMs. BPCMs function like thermal batteries, absorbing, storing, and releasing thermal energy through phase transitions, typically between 20 degrees C and 30 degrees C. This process helps stabilize indoor climates and decreases reliance on mechanical heating and cooling systems. This article comprehensively assesses the properties, thermal performance, and applications of BPCMs in building materials. It also provides an essential evaluation of life cycle assessment (LCA) and financial feasibility. Its purpose is to guide the research, engineering, and policy communities in adopting practical applications for sustainable construction practices. Integrating BPCMs in TES structures is crucial for improving sustainability and energy conservation in the construction industry. This approach offers a viable pathway toward creating more energy-efficient buildings. Furthermore, a comparative analysis is provided, evaluating BPCMs along different varieties of section trade substances, inclusive of natural, inorganic, and eutectic alternatives. This analysis specializes in numerous crucial factors: price, energy performance, and environmental impact. The review addresses challenges such as heat transfer costs, compatibility with conventional building materials, and policy implications.
Electrochemical sensors utilising magnetic materials have exhibited exceptional abilities in detecting various entities, including biomolecules, heavy and hazardous metal ions, and toxic substances like bisphenol-A. Over the past five years, these sensors have proven effective in numerous fields, including medical diagnosis, environmental remediation, and food safety and quality control. These sensors have shown impressive performance metrics for the detection process, achieving ultra-low limits of detection, a broad dynamic range of analysis, high stability under harsh environmental conditions, and outstanding repeatability in the study. Nonetheless, several notable limitations, including response time, magnetic interference, signal drift, occasional sensitivity issues, and restricted operational conditions, pose challenges in advancing these sensors to meet higher standards for increased application in various fields. Addressing these limitations may involve implementing strategies such as enhancing sensitivity through nano-structuring and integrating hybrid materials in the analysis. An optimised design can be implemented to improve response time by adhering to the microfluidic sensor preparation strategy. The application of coatings, encapsulations, and the incorporation of stabilising agents can enhance the lifespan of the sensor. These exemplify methods for improving the overall performance of the respective sensors. In the future, integrating IoT with microfluidic sensors presents a promising strategy to enhance the reliability of these sensors for point-of-care and real-time testing in medical applications and environmental analysis. The sensors possess remarkable capabilities, yet their effectiveness can be further improved by implementing various tuning methods, including functionalization with electroactive compounds like thionine or ferrocene to amplify the electrochemical signal during analysis. The article’s main text presents numerous analogous approaches analyzed through critical and rational lenses. This paper comprehensively reviews the diverse studies conducted in the relevant field over the past five years.
Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are recognised for their environmental persistence and bioaccumulation, necessitating a dependable detection technology. Traditional methods examine multiple facets. Electrochemical sensors represent a preferable alternative due to their reliability, real-time detection capabilities, and potential for on-site analysis. Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) and molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) exhibit remarkable properties in analysis, including high sensitivity and selectivity, rapid response and efficient electron transfer capabilities. Nonetheless, the stability of MOFs occasionally poses issues in aquatic conditions. Utilising a microfluidic channel between interdigitated microelectrodes (IDμE) in a MOF-based electrochemical sensor for PFASa detection offers numerous advantages. It possesses a minimal limit of detection (LOD), comparable to cutting-edge ex-situ methodologies. The molecular interactions of the capture probes provide effective electrochemical transduction, while the nanoporous morphology of the materials and IDμE significantly enhance the signal-to-noise ratio. Extended diffusion durations impede detection abilities and limit molecular interactions between PFAS and electrode surfaces. The selectivity challenges involve differentiation problems and complex matrices. Accurately identifying PFAS compounds in samples is problematic, especially those with similar carbon chain lengths, and existing sensors are hindered by interference from non-fluorinated surfactants. Improvements in electrode design can be realised by the use of nonplanar interdigitated microelectrode arrays (NP-IDμE), the application of nanoporous and capacitive electrode technologies, and the incorporation of electrode nano-porosity to minimise non-specific adsorption. Improvements in signal and sensitivity can optimise the detection process. Signal increases can be attained by decoupling sensitivity and selectivity using force as a tuning parameter, employing ambient oxygen as a mediator molecule instead of expensive ferrocene, and utilising electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) for improved sensitivity. Integrating IoT with EC PFAS sensors indicates a promising future for environmental monitoring.