Advanced ZnFe₂O₄@f-CNF electrode: A robust electrochemical sensor for Tert-butyl hydroquinone detection in food and edible oil

Abstract

Fabrication of a binary electrocatalyst is expounded in this study, which is based on a biocompatible ZnFe₂O₄ nanoparticles that is adorned onto the functionalized carbon nanofiber (f-CNF) through a straightforward ultrasonication technique. This electrocatalyst is applied for the reliable quantification of the food additive Tert-Butyl Hydroquinone (TBHQ) from various food samples and products. The electrochemical performance of the ZnFe₂O₄@f-CNF composite is investigated using cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy analysis. The structural features of the composite, characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy which reveals its crystalline and porous attributes. Then electrochemical characteristics of the ZnFe₂O₄@f-CNF composite for TBHQ detection is evaluated employing cyclic voltammetry and differential pulse voltammetry methodologies. Notably, this composite demonstrates a remarkable low detection limit (LOD) of 0.026 μM with a good linear detection range, accompanied by a favorable sensitivity towards TBHQ. Lastly, the developed sensor system manifests a substantial recovery range for real sample analysis, suggesting its potential as a viable alternative to existing diagnostic tools for TBHQ detection.