Highly efficient enzyme less glucose sensor based on cross-linked nitrogen-doped graphene aerogel incorporated with ytterbium oxide and decorated with nickel nitride nanoparticles

The development of valuable Non-enzymatic glucose sensors relies extensively on the design of sensitive and cost-effective materials with high catalytic activity for the efficient electro-oxidation of glucose. In this work, nitrogen-doped reduced graphene aerogel decorated with Yb₂O₃ nanoparticles (GA:N–Yb₂O₃) was prepared via a simple one-step hydrothermal method. Then this conductive porous three-dimensional scaffold was employed as an excellent substrate for hosting nickel nitride (Ni₃N) nanoparticles (NPs). Electrochemical investigation confirmed the beneficial role of GA:N–Yb₂O₃ for enhancing Ni₃N NPs catalytic activity. This sensor shows low glucose oxidation potential, a low detection limit, and high sensitivity. Using cyclic voltammetry (CV), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), chronoamperometry, and amperometry, the electrochemical activity of the electrode towards the oxidation of glucose was investigated. The GA:N–Yb₂O₃/Ni₃N glassy carbon electrode (GCE) modifier was well applied as an electrocatalyst for sensing glucose with the detection limit of 3.9 μM, and the sensitivity of 247.1 μA mM⁻¹cm⁻². Impressively, ascorbic acid, acetaminophen, dopamine, uric acid, and sodium chloride oxidation interference could also be avoided. Nonetheless, the selectivity and stability of the Non-enzymatic glucose sensors were quite good. Hence, this new Non-enzymatic sensor can have a reliable potential application in glucose detection.