Ultra-sensitive electro sensing of Pb(II) using newly designed Co3O4/RGO sensor: an advancement in Pb(II) detection

The detection of lead ions (Pb(II)) in environmental samples is crucial due to their significant toxicity and ability for triggering serious health and ecological harm, even at minimal concentrations. The Co₃O₄/RGO nanocomposite was used for modification of glassy carbon electrodes (GCE) for sensitive electrochemical detection of trace lead ions (Pb(II)) in environmental samples. This study generated cobalt oxide nanoparticles (Co₃O₄ NPs) by an effective precipitation process and functionalized them with reduced graphene oxide (RGO) to form a nanocomposite. The resultant materials were thoroughly characterized utilizing techniques such as powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The redesigned electrode showed remarkable electrochemical performance as measured by cyclic voltammetry (CV) and differential pulse stripping voltammetry (DPSV). The sensor had a linear response to Pb(II) concentrations ranging from 10 to 90 ppb, with a detection limit of 0.5 ppb estimated using the 3σ method. This novel sensor offers a promising platform for environmental monitoring of harmful heavy metals.