Evaluation of the properties of different graphites through the development of electrochemical sensors for phenolic compounds detection

Abstract

Research in analytical chemistry have been of great interest, as it is possible to make quantitative analyses in environmental, medical and in industrially interesting samples. This happens due to a growing demand of more rapid analyses, with a relative lower cost when compared to some usual techniques, which resulted in the development of new detectors types. Among them are the disposable electrochemical sensors, which allow the production of cheaper devices, as a variety of materials can be used, even in mass production, without the need for pre-treatment or surface regeneration. Graphite powder is used as a conductive material on many sensors. This happens because of its advantageous physico-chemical properties, like its high electrical conductivity and for been chemical inertness. However, there are a variety of this product in the market, with different properties and cost. These sensors could make the detection of several compounds cheaper, helping the high demand for analyte monitoring in different samples. Catechol and hydroquinone are examples of this monitoring, especially in effluents, as they are considered of high human and environmental risk. Therefore, we propose the development of a disposable electrochemical sensor architecture with different graphites. In this way, it will be possible to carry out a more in-depth study about the morphological and electrochemical differences between these carbonaceous materials, aiming towards the detection of phenolic compounds, in biological and non-biological samples, to evaluate the effects of different graphite market brands.