Electrocatalysis: present and future

Electrodeposition of PdPt Nanoparticles on Edges and S-Vacancies in Exfoliated MoS2 Nanosheets for Enhanced Hydrogen Evolution Activity

Deposition of metal nanoparticles onto the molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) nanosheets is an efficient method to tune the electronic structure of the MoS2 and maximize its catalytic performance towards the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Herein, we report the electrodeposition of Pd and Pt nanoparticles onto desulfurized MoS2 nanosheets (MoS2-x) to achieve an improved HER activity in an acidic electrolyte. The initial MoS2 powder was exfoliated and isolated through centrifugation, followed by electrochemical desulfurization to create defect sites. Subsequently, Pt and Pd nanoparticles were electrodeposited onto the S-vacancies of MoS2-x nanosheets. The resulting PdPt nanoparticles, with a diameter of 3.3 ±1.7 nm, were distributed across the surfaces of the nanosheets. A preferential deposition was evident at the edges of the nanosheets, particularly when Pd was deposited first followed by Pt. Owing to this preferential deposition of Pd and Pt and the synergistic interaction of MoS2-x with Pd and Pt, the prepared catalyst exhibited a low overpotential of 30 mV at 10 mA cm-2, which is 2.7× lower than the MoS2-x alone. The prepared catalyst exhibited a 1.7× increase in the mass activity at 20 mV overpotential, relative to that of a commercial Pt/C nanocatalyst, showcasing its promising potential as an alternative catalyst.

Streamlined synthesis of superstructure Ni-benzimidazole MOFs: Glucose electrochemical analysis

The design and synthesis of efficient electrochemical sensors are crucial transformation technologies in electrochemistry. We successfully synthesize a three-dimensional Ni-metal-organic framework (MOF) nanostructured material with a superior architecture using benzimidazole and nickel nitrate as precursors at room temperature which is being applied in glucose electrochemical sensors. The reaction mechanism of M-6 during glucose detection is thoroughly studied using various characterization techniques, such as in situ Raman spectroscopy, in situ ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometry, synchrotron radiography, X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. The research findings demonstrate that the M-6 material exhibits high sensitivity for glucose detection, with a sensitivity of 2199.88 mA M-1 cm-2. This study provides an important reference for designing more efficient electrochemical reaction systems and optimizing material performance. Furthermore, the superstructural design offers new ideas and possibilities for the development and application of similar materials.

Advances of Transition Metal-Based Electrochemical Non-enzymatic Glucose Sensors for Glucose Analysis: A Review

Glucose concentration is a crucial parameter for assessing human health. Over recent years, non-enzymatic electrochemical glucose sensors have drawn considerable attention due to their substantial progress. This review explores the common mechanism behind the transition metal-based electrocatalytic oxidation of glucose molecules through classical electrocatalytic frameworks like the Pletcher model and the Hydrous Oxide-Adatom Mediator model (IHOAM), as well as the redox reactions at the transition metal centers. It further compiles the electrochemical characterization techniques, associated formulas, and their ensuing conclusions pertinent to transition metal-based non-enzymatic electrochemical glucose sensors. Subsequently, the review covers the latest advancements in the field of transition metal-based active materials and support materials used in non-enzymatic electrochemical glucose sensors in the last decade (2014-2023). Additionally, it presents a comprehensive classification of representative studies according to the active metal catalysts components involved.

Advancing Diabetes Management: The Future of Enzyme-Less Nanoparticle-Based Glucose Sensors-A Review

BACKGROUND

Glucose is vital for biological processes, requiring blood sugar levels to be maintained between 3.88 and 6.1 mmol/L, especially during fasting. Elevated levels signal diabetes, a global concern affecting 537 million people, necessitating effective glucose-monitoring devices.

METHOD

Enzyme-based sensors, though selective, are sensitive to environmental factors. Nonenzymatic sensors, especially those with nanoparticles, offer stability, high surface area, and cost-effectiveness. Existing literature supports their immediate glucose oxidation, showcasing exceptional sensitivity.

RESULTS

This review details nonenzymatic sensors, highlighting materials, detection limits, and the promise of nanoparticle-based designs, which exhibit enhanced sensitivity and selectivity in glucose detection.

CONCLUSION

Nanoparticle-based sensors, as reviewed, show potential for glucose monitoring, overcoming enzyme-based limitations. The conclusion suggests future directions for advancing these sensors, emphasizing ongoing innovation in this critical research area.

In situ growth of self-supported CuO nanorods from Cu-MOFs for glucose sensing and elucidation of the sensing mechanism

Herein, we present a simple and mild method to in situ prepare CuO nanostructures for non-enzymatic glucose sensing. A Cu-metal organic framework (Cu-MOF) precursor was first directly grown on a pencil lead electrode with 3D graphene-like surfaces (EPLE) and then in situ transformed into CuO nanorods. The CuO nanorod-modified EPLE (CuO/EPLE) shows high sensitivity (1138.32 μA mM-1 cm-2), fast response time (1.5 s) and low detection limit (0.11 μM) for glucose oxidation. It has been found that NaOH promoted the generation of ˙OH groups and Cu(III) on the CuO surface, which then facilitated the electrochemical oxidation of glucose. Signals characteristic of hydroxyl and carbon-centered radical adducts were detected by EPR. Furthermore, the CuO/EPLE sensor also shows good accuracy in glucose determination in human serum samples.

Advances in nanostructured material-based non-enzymatic electrochemical glucose sensors

Non-enzymatic electrochemical sensors that use functional materials to directly catalyze glucose have shown great promise in diabetes management, food control, and bioprocess inspection owing to the advantages of high sensitivity, long-term stability, and low cost. Recently, in order to produce enhanced electrochemical behavior, significant efforts have been devoted to the preparation of functional materials with regular nanostructure, as it provides high specific surface area and well-defined strong active sites for electrochemical sensing. However, the structure-performance correlation in this field has not been reviewed thoroughly in the literature. This review aims to present a comprehensive report on advanced zero- to three-dimensional nanostructures based on the geometric feature and to discuss in depth their structural effects on enzyme-free electrochemical detection of glucose. It starts by illustrating the sensing principles of nanostructured materials, followed by a detailed discussion on the structural effects related to the features of each dimension. The structure-performance correlation is explored by comparing the performance derived from diverse dimensional architectures, which is beneficial for the better design of regular nanostructure to achieve efficient enzyme-free sensing of glucose. Finally, future directions of non-enzymatic electrochemical glucose sensors to solve emerging challenges and further improve the sensing performance are also proposed.

Nickel Oxy-Hydroxy/Multi-Wall Carbon Nanotubes Film Coupled with a 3D-Printed Device as a Nonenzymatic Glucose Sensor

A rapid and simple method for the amperometric determination of glucose using a nanocomposite film of nickel oxyhydroxide and multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNTs) was evaluated. The NiHCF)/MWCNT electrode film was fabricated using the liquid-liquid interface method, and it was used as a precursor for the electrochemical synthesis of nickel oxy-hydroxy (Ni(OH)₂/NiOOH/MWCNT). The interaction between nickel oxy-hydroxy and the MWCNTs provided a film that is stable over the electrode surface, with high surface area and excellent conductivity. The nanocomposite presented an excellent electrocatalytic activity for the oxidation of glucose in an alkaline medium. The sensitivity of the sensor was found to be 0.0561 μA μmol L^-1, and a linear range from 0.1 to 150 μmol L^-1 was obtained, with a good limit of detection (0.030 μmol L^-1). The electrode exhibits a fast response (150 injections h^-1) and a sensitive catalytic performance, which may be due to the high conductivity of MWCNT and the increased active surface area of the electrode. Additionally, a minimal difference in the slopes for ascending (0.0561 µA µmol L^-1) and descending (0.0531 µA µmol L^-1) was observed. Moreover, the sensor was applied to the detection of glucose in artificial plasma blood samples, achieving values of 89 to 98% of recovery.

Theoretical study on the adsorption and oxidation of glucose on Au(111) surface

CONTEXT

While Au-based catalysts recently have shown tremendous potential in glucose oxidation to gluconic acid, the detailed reaction mechanism is still unclear, which impedes the development of direct glucose fuel cell (DGFC).

METHODS

Using density functional theory (DFT), we exhibit some new adsorption configurations and oxidation mechanisms by considering both the open chain form and the ring form of glucose on Au(111) surface in the presence of OH. The strong interactions between glucose and the OH adsorbed surface are obtained. Moreover, form the calculated energy pathways, the oxidation of glucose in the open chain involves the dissociation of the formyl C - H bond by the adsorbed OH, while the ring form glucose oxidation is initiated by O - H bond rupture rather than C - H bond scission and preferentially undergoes the ring-open process to generate the open chain form glucose. Meanwhile, the results demonstrate that the adsorbed OH assists in reducing the activation energy of reaction process.

Recent advances in perovskite oxides for non-enzymatic electrochemical sensors: A review

Non-enzymatic electrochemical sensors with significant advantages of high sensitivity, long-term stability, and excellent reproducibility, are one promising technology to solve many challenges, such as the detection of toxic substances and viruses. Among various materials, perovskite oxides have become a promising candidate for use in non-enzymatic electrochemical sensors because of their low cost, flexible structure, and high intrinsic catalytic activity. A comprehensive overview of the recent advances in perovskite oxides for non-enzymatic electrochemical sensors is provided, which includes the synthesis methods of nanostructured perovskites and the electrocatalytic mechanisms of perovskite catalysts. The better sensing performance of perovskite oxides is mainly due to the lattice O vacancies and superoxide oxygen ions (O₂^2-/O^-), which are generated by the transfer of lattice oxygen to adsorbed -OH and have performed excellent properties suitable for electrooxidation of analytes. However, the limited electron transfer kinetics, stability, and selectivity of perovskite oxides alone make perovskite oxides far from ready for scientific development. Therefore, composites of perovskite oxides with other materials like graphitic carbon, metals, metal compounds, conducting organics, and biomolecules are summarized. Furthermore, a brief section describing the future challenges and the corresponding recommendation is presented in this review.

Pt Nanoflowers as a Highly Effective Electrocatalyst for Glucose Oxidation in Abiotic Glucose Fuel Cells

Self-powered implantable medical devices (IMDs) without any external power supply are desired in a growing number of situations. Glucose fuel cells (GFCs) that convert the chemical energy of intrinsic glucose and oxygen into electricity are promising technology to achieve this goal. Herein, a Pt nanoflower (Pt NF) catalyst is prepared by using a facile one-step reduction method and employed as the anode catalyst for abiotic GFCs in a neutral environment at a physiological concentration of glucose. The Pt NF catalyst exhibits high electrocatalytic activity, catalytic selectivity, and good durability in the electrochemical analysis. The Pt NF's rapid linear current response to the variation of glucose concentration within a wide range also makes it a promising material for glucose sensors. A GFC with two chambers fabricated with a Pt NF catalyst-decorated carbon paper (Pt NFs/CP) anode and a Pt sheet cathode generates a maximum power density (P_max) of 13.8 μW cm^-2, an open-circuit voltage (V_OC) of 819.5 mV, and a short-circuit current density (J_SC) of 0.12 mA cm^-2, which makes it a viable candidate for application in self-powered devices.

Progress on the influence of non-enzymatic electrodes characteristics on the response to glucose detection: a review (2016–2022)

Glucose sensing devices have experienced significant progress in the last years in response to the demand for cost-effective monitoring. Thus, research efforts have been focused on achieving reliable, selective, and sensitive sensors able to monitor the glucose level in different biofluids. The development of enzyme-based devices is challenged by poor stability, time-consuming, and complex purification procedures, facts that have given rise to the synthesis of enzyme-free sensors. Recent advances focus on the use of different components: metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), carbon nanomaterials, or metal oxides. Motivated by this topic, several reviews have been published addressing the sensor materials and synthesis methods, gathering relevant information for the development of new nanostructures. However, the abundant information has not concluded yet in commercial devices and is not useful from an engineering point of view. The dependence of the electrode response on its physico-chemical nature, which would determine the selection and optimization of the materials and synthesis method, remains an open question. Thus, this review aims to critically analyze from an engineering vision the existing information on non-enzymatic glucose electrodes; the analysis is performed linking the response in terms of sensitivity when interferences are present, stability, and response under physiological conditions to the electrode characteristics.

Is graphene the rock upon which new era continuous glucose monitors could be built?

Diabetes mellitus' (DM) prevalence worldwide is estimated to be around 10% and is expected to rise over the next decades. Monitoring blood glucose levels aims to determine whether glucose targets are met to minimize the risk for the development of symptoms related to high or low blood sugar and avoid long-term diabetes complications. Continuous glucose monitoring (CGMs) systems emerged almost two decades ago and have revolutionized the way diabetes is managed. Especially in Type 1 DM, the combination of a CGM with an insulin pump (known as a closed-loop system or artificial pancreas) allows an autonomous regulation of patients' insulin with minimal intervention from the user. However, there is still an unmet need for high accuracy, precision and repeatability of CGMs. Graphene was isolated in 2004 and found immediately fertile ground in various biomedical applications and devices due to its unique combination of properties including its high electrical conductivity. In the last decade, various graphene family nanomaterials have been exploited for the development of enzymatic and non-enzymatic biosensors to determine glucose in biological fluids, such as blood, sweat, and so on. Although great progress has been achieved in the field, several issues need to be addressed for graphene sensors to become a predominant material in the new era of CGMs.

Progress of Enzymatic and Non-Enzymatic Electrochemical Glucose Biosensor Based on Nanomaterial-Modified Electrode

This review covers the progress of nanomaterial-modified electrodes for enzymatic and non-enzymatic glucose biosensors. Fundamental insights into glucose biosensor components and the crucial factors controlling the electrochemical performance of glucose biosensors are discussed in detail. The metal, metal oxide, and hybrid/composite nanomaterial fabrication strategies for the modification of electrodes, mechanism of detection, and significance of the nanomaterials toward the electrochemical performance of enzymatic and non-enzymatic glucose biosensors are compared and comprehensively reviewed. This review aims to provide readers with an overview and underlying concept of producing a reliable, stable, cost-effective, and excellent electrochemical performance of a glucose biosensor.

Graphene and Its Derivatives: Synthesis and Application in the Electrochemical Detection of Analytes in Sweat

Wearable sensors and invasive devices have been studied extensively in recent years as the demand for real-time human healthcare applications and seamless human-machine interaction has risen exponentially. An explosion in sensor research throughout the globe has been ignited by the unique features such as thermal, electrical, and mechanical properties of graphene. This includes wearable sensors and implants, which can detect a wide range of data, including body temperature, pulse oxygenation, blood pressure, glucose, and the other analytes present in sweat. Graphene-based sensors for real-time human health monitoring are also being developed. This review is a comprehensive discussion about the properties of graphene, routes to its synthesis, derivatives of graphene, etc. Moreover, the basic features of a biosensor along with the chemistry of sweat are also discussed in detail. The review mainly focusses on the graphene and its derivative-based wearable sensors for the detection of analytes in sweat. Graphene-based sensors for health monitoring will be examined and explained in this study as an overview of the most current innovations in sensor designs, sensing processes, technological advancements, sensor system components, and potential hurdles. The future holds great opportunities for the development of efficient and advanced graphene-based sensors for the detection of analytes in sweat.

Nanoporous Cauliflower-like Pd-Loaded Functionalized Carbon Nanotubes as an Enzyme-Free Electrocatalyst for Glucose Sensing at Neutral pH: Mechanism Study

In this work, we propose a novel functionalized carbon nanotube (f-CNT) supporting nanoporous cauliflower-like Pd nanostructures (PdNS) as an enzyme-free interface for glucose electrooxidation reaction (GOR) in a neutral medium (pH 7.4). The novelty resides in preparing the PdNS/f-CNT biomimetic nanocatalyst using a cost-effective and straightforward method, which consists of drop-casting well-dispersed f-CNTs over the Screen-printed carbon electrode (SPCE) surface, followed by the electrodeposition of PdNS. Several parameters affecting the morphology, structure, and catalytic properties toward the GOR of the PdNS catalyst, such as the PdCl₂ precursor concentration and electrodeposition conditions, were investigated during this work. The electrochemical behavior of the PdNS/f-CNT/SPCE toward GOR was investigated through Cyclic Voltammetry (CV), Linear Sweep Voltammetry (LSV), and amperometry. There was also a good correlation between the morphology, structure, and electrocatalytic activity of the PdNS electrocatalyst. Furthermore, the LSV response and potential-pH diagram for the palladium–water system have enabled the proposal for a mechanism of this GOR. The proposed mechanism would be beneficial, as the basis, to achieve the highest catalytic activity by selecting the suitable potential range. Under the optimal conditions, the PdNS/f-CNT/SPCE-based biomimetic sensor presented a wide linear range (1–41 mM) with a sensitivity of 9.3 µA cm⁻² mM⁻¹ and a detection limit of 95 µM (S/N = 3) toward glucose at a detection potential of +300 mV vs. a saturated calomel electrode. Furthermore, because of the fascinating features such as fast response, low cost, reusability, and poison-free characteristics, the as-proposed electrocatalyst could be of great interest in both detection systems (glucose sensors) and direct glucose fuel cells.

Progress of Polyaniline Glucose Sensors for Diabetes Mellitus Management Utilizing Enzymatic and Non-Enzymatic Detection

Glucose measurement is a fundamental tool in the daily care of Diabetes Mellitus (DM) patients and healthcare professionals. While there is an established market for glucose sensors, the rising number of DM cases has promoted intensive research to provide accurate systems for glucose monitoring. Polyaniline (PAni) is a conductive polymer with a linear conjugated backbone with sequences of single C-C and double C=C bonds. This unique structure produces attractive features for the design of sensing systems such as conductivity, biocompatibility, environmental stability, tunable electrochemical properties, and antibacterial activity. PAni-based glucose sensors (PBGS) were actively developed in past years, using either enzymatic or non-enzymatic principles. In these devices, PAni played roles as a conductive material for electron transfer, biocompatible matrix for enzymatic immobilization, or sensitive layer for detection. In this review, we covered the development of PBGS from 2015 to the present, and it is not even exhaustive; it provides an overview of advances and achievements for enzymatic and non-enzymatic PBGB PBGS for self-monitoring and continuous blood glucose monitoring. Additionally, the limitations of PBGB PBGS to advance into robust and stable technology and the challenges associated with their implementation are presented and discussed.

Electrochemical Characterization of Modified Glassy Carbon Electrodes for Non-Enzymatic Glucose Sensors

The diversity of materials proposed for non-enzymatic glucose detection and the lack of standardized protocols for assessing sensor performance have caused considerable confusion in the field. Therefore, methods for pre-evaluation of working electrodes, which will enable their conscious design, are currently intensively sought. Our approach involved comprehensive morphologic and structural characterization of copper sulfides as well as drop-casted suspensions based on three different polymers-cationic chitosan, anionic Nafion, and nonionic polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP). For this purpose, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Raman spectroscopy were applied. Subsequently, comparative studies of electrochemical properties of bare glassy carbon electrode (GCE), polymer- and copper sulfides/polymer-modified GCEs were performed using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and voltammetry. The results from EIS provided an explanation for the enhanced analytical performance of Cu-PVP/GCE over chitosan- and Nafion-based electrodes. Moreover, it was found that the pH of the electrolyte significantly affects the electrocatalytic behavior of copper sulfides, indicating the importance of OH_ads in the detection mechanism. Additionally, diffusion was denoted as a limiting step in the irreversible electrooxidation process that occurs in the proposed system.

Carbon nanomaterial hybrids via laser writing for high-performance non-enzymatic electrochemical sensors: a critical review

Non-enzymatic electrochemical sensors possess superior stability and affordability in comparison to natural enzyme-based counterparts. A large variety of nanomaterials have been introduced as enzyme mimicking with appreciable sensitivity and detection limit for various analytes of which glucose and H2O2 have been mostly investigated. The nanomaterials made from noble metal, non-noble metal, and metal composites, as well as carbon and their derivatives in various architectures, have been extensively proposed over the past years. Three-dimensional (3D) transducers especially realized from the hybrids of carbon nanomaterials either with metal-based nanocatalysts or heteroatom dopants are favorable owing to low cost, good electrical conductivity, and stability. In this critical review, we evaluate the current strategies to create such nanomaterials to serve as non-enzymatic transducers. Laser writing has emerged as a powerful tool for the next generation of devices owing to their low cost and resultant remarkable performance that are highly attractive to non-enzymatic transducers. So far, only few works have been reported, but in the coming years, more and more research on this topic is foreseeable.

Electrochemical biomass upgrading: degradation of glucose to lactic acid on a copper(ii) electrode

Biomass upgrading - the conversion of biomass waste into value-added products - provides a possible solution to reduce global dependency on nonrenewable resources. This study investigates the possibility of green biomass upgrading for lactic acid production by electrochemically-driven degradation of glucose. Herein we report an electrooxidized copper(ii) electrode which exhibits a turnover frequency of 5.04 s^-1 for glucose conversion. Chronoamperometry experiments under varied potentials, alkalinity, and electrode preparation achieved a maximum lactic acid yield of 23.3 ± 1.2% and selectivity of 31.1 ± 1.9% (1.46 V vs. RHE, 1.0 M NaOH) for a room temperature and open-to-atmosphere reaction. Comparison between reaction conditions revealed lactic acid yield depends on alkalinity and applied potential, while pre-oxidation of the copper had a negligible effect on yield. Post-reaction cyclic voltammetry studies indicated no loss in reactivity for copper(ii) electrodes after a 30 hour reaction. Finally, a mechanism dependent on solvated Cu²⁺ species is proposed as evidenced by similar product distributions in electrocatalytic and thermocatalytic systems.

Non-Enzymatic Glucose Sensors Involving Copper: An Electrochemical Perspective

Non-enzymatic glucose sensors based on the use of copper and its oxides have emerged as promising candidates to replace enzymatic glucose sensors owing to their stability, ease of fabrication, and superior sensitivity. This review explains the theories of the mechanism of glucose oxidation on copper transition metal electrodes. It also presents an overview on the development of among the best non-enzymatic copper-based glucose sensors in the past 10 years. A brief description of methods, interesting findings, and important performance parameters are provided to inspire the reader and researcher to create new improvements in sensor design. Finally, several important considerations that pertain to the nano-structuring of the electrode surface is provided.

Non-enzymatic and rapid detection of glucose on PVA-CuO thin film using ARDUINO UNO based capacitance measurement unit

Glucose measurement is one of the essential health monitoring practices for maintaining blood sugar levels. Here, we have fabricated a highly specific capacitive nano-sensor for non-enzymatic glucose detection. Capacitance measurements were carried out on polyvinyl alcohol capped copper oxide (PVA-CuO) thin films on indium tin oxide (ITO) coated glass using ARDUINO UNO. The capacitance study shows a decrease in capacitance with an increase in glucose concentrations. The applicability in real samples was performed by studying the glucose in the presence of fetal bovine serum. Most commonly found interfering agents were used for interference studies, which confirmed the capacitive nano-sensor specificity. The system was further checked for repeatability up to six readings and reproducibility up to 5 chips. The shelf-life study showed stability for four weeks of a chip. These studies indicate that this capacitance-based measurement unit can be used for reliable, rapid, and non-enzymatic detection of glucose in real sample.

Developments of the Electroactive Materials for Non-Enzymatic Glucose Sensing and Their Mechanisms

A comprehensive review of the electroactive materials for non-enzymatic glucose sensing and sensing devices has been performed in this work. A general introduction for glucose sensing, a facile electrochemical technique for glucose detection, and explanations of fundamental mechanisms for the electro-oxidation of glucose via the electrochemical technique are conducted. The glucose sensing materials are classified into five major systems: (1) mono-metallic materials, (2) bi-metallic materials, (3) metallic-oxide compounds, (4) metallic-hydroxide materials, and (5) metal-metal derivatives. The performances of various systems within this decade have been compared and explained in terms of sensitivity, linear regime, the limit of detection (LOD), and detection potentials. Some promising materials and practicable methodologies for the further developments of glucose sensors have been proposed. Firstly, the atomic deposition of alloys is expected to enhance the selectivity, which is considered to be lacking in non-enzymatic glucose sensing. Secondly, by using the modification of the hydrophilicity of the metallic-oxides, a promoted current response from the electro-oxidation of glucose is expected. Lastly, by taking the advantage of the redistribution phenomenon of the oxide particles, the usage of the noble metals is foreseen to be reduced.

Simultaneous Detection of Glucose and Fructose in Synthetic Musts by Multivariate Analysis of Silica-Based Amperometric Sensor Signals

Silica-based electrodes which permanently include a graphite/Au nanoparticles composite were tested for non-enzymatic detection of glucose and fructose. The composite material showed an effective electrocatalytic activity, to achieve the oxidation of the two analytes at quite low potential values and with good linearity. Reduced surface passivation was observed even in presence of organic species normally constituting real samples. Electrochemical responses were systematically recorded in cyclic voltammetry and differential pulse voltammetry by analysing 99 solutions containing glucose and fructose at different concentration values. The analysed samples consisted both in glucose and fructose aqueous solutions at pH 12 and in solutions of synthetic musts of red grapes, to test the feasibility of the approach in a real frame. Multivariate exploratory analyses of the electrochemical signals were performed using the Principal Component Analysis (PCA). This gave evidence of the effectiveness of the chemometric approach to study the electrochemical sensor responses. Thanks to PCA, it was possible to highlight the different contributions of glucose and fructose to the voltammetric signal, allowing their selective determination.

Facile copper-based nanofibrous matrix for glucose sensing: Eenzymatic vs. non-enzymatic

The current study aims to provide a valid comparison between glucose detection efficiency with an enzymatic and a non-enzymatic sensing platform. A low-cost nano-matrix for glucose sensing was developed by drop-coating copper nanoparticles (Cu NPs) onto a polyacrylonitrile (PAN) electrospun nanofibrous assembly. The PAN NFs/Cu NPs matrix was optimized regarding electrospinning time and Cu NPs content and employed as a non-enzymatic sensor or further modified by cross-linking of glucose oxidase (GOD) for the development of an enzymatic sensor. The non-enzymatic glucose sensor was three times more sensitive (300 mAM^-1cm^-2) than the enzymatic one (81 mAM^-1cm^-2) with similar limit of detection values (5.9 and 5.6 µM, respectively). Incorporation of MWCNTs improved both the LOD (3.3 µM) and the operational stability of the non-enzymatic configuration (RSD 7.3%). The interference effect proved insignificant for the enzymatic sensor due to the innate catalytic selectivity whilst the non-enzymatic sensor acquired selectivity due to the nanofibrous PAN matrix and Nafion coating. The non-enzymatic PAN NFs/Cu NPs sensor was chosen for the detection of glucose in real blood serum samples whilst the PAN NFs/Cu NPs/GOD sensor was applied for glucose detection in fruit juices, both proving recovery results close to 100%.

Ultrasensitive simultaneous voltammetric determination of 4-aminophenol and acetaminophen based on bimetallic MOF-derived nitrogen-doped carbon coated CoNi alloy

Simultaneous electrochemical determination of 4-aminophenol (4-AP) and acetaminophen (ACOP) is crucial due to their high toxicity when are overused. Herein, a novel electrocatalyst of nitrogen-doped carbon coated CoNi alloy (CoNi@CN) is derived from bimetallic CoNi(BDC)₂(DABCO) for the first time. A series of characterizations demonstrate that composite has been successfully synthesized, and all elements are evenly distributed in the catalyst. The optimal sensor based on Co₁Ni₁@CN-700 exhibits two wide linear responses for 4-AP (0.05-60 μM and 60-250 μM) and ACOP (0.05-40 μM and 40-150 μM) with the lowest detection limit of 5.2 nM and 3.8 nM compared with current known reports. Moreover, the sensor has superior reproducibility, selectivity and stability. In addition, the wonderful recoveries also are obtained when sensor is used to detect 4-AP and ACOP in real samples, illustrating that electrochemical sensor has great prospect in the clinical application.

A comparative electrochemical study of non-enzymatic glucose, ascorbic acid, and albumin detection by using a ternary mesoporous metal oxide (ZrO2, SiO2 and In2O3) modified graphene composite based biosensor

In this study, we present an electrochemical investigation of a ternary mesoporous metal oxide (ZrO2, SiO2 and In2O3) modified graphene composite for non-enzymatic glucose, ascorbic acid, and albumin detection in urine at physiological pH. Synergetic property of ZrO2-Ag-G-SiO2 and In2O3-G-SiO2 were investigated via cyclic voltammetry (CV) using FTO glass and copper-foil electrodes with no prerequisite of solid antacid expansion. The mesoporous ZrO2-Ag-G-SiO2 and In2O3-G-SiO2 composites were synthesized and characterized using XRD, SEM, TEM, Raman spectroscopy, XPS, DRS, BET, and photocurrent measurements. Upon increasing the glucose concentration from 0 to 3 mM, CV results indicated two anodic peaks at +0.18 V and +0.42 V versus Ag/AgCl, corresponding to Zr3+ and Zr4+, respectively, considering the presence of glucose in urine. Moreover, the effects of high surface area In2O3-G-SiO2 were observed upon the examination of ZrO2-Ag-G-SiO2. In2O3-G-SiO2 demonstrated a decent electrochemical pattern in glucose, ascorbic acid, and albumin sensing. Nevertheless, insignificant synergistic effects were observed in In2O3-G, ZrO2-G, and ZrO2-G-SiO2. In2O3-G-SiO2 performed well under a wide range of electrolytes and urine, and showed no activity toward uric acid, suggesting potential for biodetection in urine.

Beyond electrolysis: old challenges and new concepts of electricity-driven chemical reactors

With renewable electricity becoming the most widely available, versatile energy form on Earth, the electricity-driven chemical reactors will play crucial role in the transition to green, environmentally-neutral manufacturing of fuels and chemicals.

MOMSense: Metal-Oxide-Metal Elementary Glucose Sensor

In this paper, we present a novel Pt/CuO/Pt metal-oxide-metal (MOM) glucose sensor. The devices are fabricated using a simple, low-cost standard photolithography process. The unique planar structure of the device provides a large electrochemically active surface area, which acts as a nonenzymatic reservoir for glucose oxidation. The sensor has a linear sensing range between 2.2 mM and 10 mM of glucose concentration, which covers the blood glucose levels for an adult human. The distinguishing property of this sensor is its ability to measure glucose at neutral pH conditions (i.e. pH = 7). Furthermore, the dilution step commonly needed for CuO-based nonenzymatic electrochemical sensors to achieve an alkaline medium, which is essential to perform redox reactions in the absence of glucose oxidase, is eliminated, resulting in a lower-cost and more compact device.

Multisensor Systems by Electrochemical Nanowire Assembly for the Analysis of Aqueous Solutions

The development of electrochemical multisensor systems is driven by the need for fast, miniature, inexpensive, analytical devices, and advanced interdisciplinary based on both chemometric and (nano)material approaches. A multicomponent analysis of complex mixtures in environmental and technological monitoring, biological samples, and cell culture requires chip-based multisensor systems with high-stability sensors. In this paper, we describe the development, characterization, and applications of chip-based nanoelectrochemical sensor arrays prepared by the directed electrochemical nanowire assembly (DENA) of noble metals and metal alloys to analyze aqueous solutions. A synergic action of the electrode transducer function and electrocatalytic activity of the nanostructured surface toward analytes is achieved in the assembled metal nanowire (NW) sensors. Various sensor nanomaterials (Pd, Ni, Au, and their multicomponent compositions) can be electrochemically assembled on a single chip without employing multiple cycles of photolithography process to realize multi-analyte sensing applications as well as spatial resolution of sensor analysis by this single-chip multisensor system. For multi-analyte electrochemical sensing, individual amperometric signals of two or more nanowires can be acquired, making use of the specific electrocatalytic surface properties of the individual nanowire sensors of the array toward analytes. To demonstrate the application of a new electrochemical multisensor platform, Pd-Au, Pd-Ni, Pd, and Au NW electrode arrays on a single chip were employed for the non-enzymatic analysis of hydrogen peroxide, glucose, and ethanol. The analytes are determined at low absolute values of the detection potentials with linear concentration ranges of 1.0 × 10⁻⁶ − 1.0 × 10⁻³ M (H₂O₂), 1.5 × 10⁻⁷ − 2.0 × 10⁻³ M (glucose), and 0.7 × 10⁻³ − 3.0 × 10⁻² M (ethanol), detection limits of 2 × 10⁻⁷ M (H₂O₂), 4 × 10⁻⁸ M (glucose), and 5.2 × 10⁻⁴ M (ethanol), and sensitivities of 18 μA M⁻¹ (H₂O₂), 178 μA M⁻¹ (glucose), and 28 μA M⁻¹ (ethanol), respectively. The sensors demonstrate a high level of stability due to the non-enzymatic detection mode. Based on the DENA-assembled nanowire electrodes of a compositional diversity, we propose a novel single-chip electrochemical multisensor platform, which is promising for acquiring complex analytical signals for advanced data processing with chemometric techniques aimed at the development of electronic tongue-type multisensor systems for flexible multi-analyte monitoring and healthcare applications.

Recent advances in electrochemical non-enzymatic glucose sensors - A review

This review encompasses the mechanisms of electrochemical glucose detection and recent advances in non-enzymatic glucose sensors based on a variety of materials ranging from platinum, gold, metal alloys/adatom, non-precious transition metal/metal oxides to glucose-specific organic materials. It shows that the discovery of new materials based on unique nanostructures have not only provided the detailed insight into non-enzymatic glucose oxidation, but also demonstrated the possibility of direct detection in whole blood or interstitial fluids. We critically evaluate various aspects of non-enzymatic electrochemical glucose sensors in terms of significance as well as performance. Beyond laboratory tests, the prospect of commercialization of non-enzymatic glucose sensors is discussed.

Noncovalent Immobilization of Molecular Electrocatalysts for Chemical Synthesis: Efficient Electrochemical Alcohol Oxidation with a Pyrene-TEMPO Conjugate

Electrocatalytic methods for organic synthesis could offer sustainable alternatives to traditional redox reactions, but strategies are needed to enhance the performance of molecular catalysts designed for this purpose. The synthesis of a pyrene-tethered TEMPO derivative (TEMPO=2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidinyl-N-oxyl) is described, which undergoes facile in situ noncovalent immobilization onto a carbon cloth electrode. Cyclic voltammetry and controlled potential electrolysis studies demonstrate that the immobilized catalyst exhibits much higher activity relative to 4-acetamido-TEMPO, an electronically similar homogeneous catalyst. In preparative electrolysis experiments with a series of alcohol substrates and the immobilized catalyst, turnover numbers and frequencies approach 2 000 and 4 000 h-1 , respectively. The synthetic utility of the method is further demonstrated in the oxidation of a sterically hindered hydroxymethylpyrimidine precursor to the blockbuster drug, rosuvastatin.

Recent advancements, key challenges and solutions in non-enzymatic electrochemical glucose sensors based on graphene platforms

This review elucidates the recent advances in graphene platforms in electrochemical non-enzymatic glucose sensors and provides solutions for existing bottlenecks.

Electrochemical design of a new nanosensor based on cobalt nanoparticles, chitosan and MWCNT for the determination of daclatasvir: a hepatitis C antiviral drug

Daclatasvir (DAC) is listed on the World Health Organization's list of essential medicines needed in a basic health system, therefore, electrochemical and impedance spectroscopic methods are necessary.