In-situ synthesized MgIn 2 S 4 /CdWO 4 type-II heterojunction as a light-driven photoelectrochemical sensor for ultrasensitive detection of catechol in environmental water samples

• Published in: Talanta (Oxford) Vol. 276; p. 126206
• Main Authors: Qiu, Yuhui, Huang, Minghui, Sun, Xiaoqian, Wang, Yilin, Deng, Kunxiang, Liu, Zhifang, Xie, Yixi, Zhao, Pengcheng, Fei, Junjie
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Netherlands 15.08.2024
• Subjects: Photoelectrochemical sensor; CdWO; MgInS; Catechol; Heterojunction
• ISSN: 1873-3573

As an essential chemical intermediate, catechol (CC) residues may have adverse effects on human health. Herein, an effective and facile photoelectrochemical sensor platform based on MgIn S /CdWO composite is constructed for monitoring CC. MgIn S increases light absorption range and activity, while CdWO enhances photoelectronic stability, and the type-II heterojunction formed can significantly enhance photocurrent response. Due to the autoxidation process, CC is converted into oligomeric products, which increase the spatial site resistance and attenuate the overall photocurrent response. It is worth noting that the cauliflower-like structure of MgIn S can provide a large specific surface area, and the presence of Mg promotes autoxidation, thus providing a suitable condition for detecting CC. Under optimal conditions, the MgIn S /CdWO /GCE photoelectrochemical sensor has a prominent linear relationship in the range of CC concentration from 2 nM to 7 μM, with a limit of detection of 0.27 nM. With satisfactory selectivity, excellent stability, and remarkable reproducibility, this sensor provides a crucial reference value for effectively and rapidly detecting pollutants in environmental water samples.