Nanocarbon sensors: Unlocking efficient detection of water pollutants through electrocatalysis

This study addresses the pressing issue of water contamination by developing a sensitive electrochemical sensor for bisphenol A (BPA) detection using a nanocomposite of Nickel disulfide (NiS₂) embedded in functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes (f-MWCNTs). The NiS₂/f-MWCNTs modified glassy carbon electrode (GCE) demonstrated a low limit of detection of 21 nM, surpassing some existing sensors and highlighting its potential for trace-level BPA detection. The sensor exhibited an enhancement in charge transfer kinetics compared to bare electrodes, attributed to the synergistic effects between NiS₂ and f-MWCNTs. With its high sensitivity and rapid response, this sensor shows promise for integration into handheld devices for on-site water testing, enabling efficient and accurate monitoring of BPA contamination. The proposed sensor's performance was validated through successful detection of BPA in real-world water samples, including milk, with recoveries ranging from 96.3 % to 99.50 %. This study demonstrates the potential of hybrid electrocatalysts in sensing applications, providing a promising approach for detecting environmental pollutants and ensuring water quality.