Enhanced electrocatalytic activity of reduced graphene oxide-Os nanoparticle hybrid films obtained at a liquid/liquid interface

Abstract

Hybrid films of reduced graphene oxide-osmium nanoparticles (rGO-Os NPs) synthesized at a liquid/liquid interface are explored for their electrocatalytic activity towards the oxidation of rhodamine B (RhB), a popular colourant found in textile industry effluents and a non-permitted food colour. The free-standing nature of the films enables them to be lifted directly on to electrodes without the aid of any binders. The films consist of aggregates of ultra-small Os NPs interspersed with rGO layers. The hybrid film exhibits enhanced RhB oxidation when compared to its constituents arising from the synergic effect between rGO and Os NPs, Os contributing to electrocatalysis and rGO contributing to high surface area and conductance as well as stabilization of Os nanoparticles. The electrochemical sensor based on rGO-Os NP hybrid film on pencil graphite electrode shows a remarkable performance for the quantitative detection of RhB with a linear variation in a wide range of concentrations, 4–1300 ppb (8.3 nM–2.71 μM). The modified electrode presents good stability over more than 6 months, reproducibility and anti-interference capability. The use of developed sensor for adequate detection of RhB in real samples such as food samples and pen markers is also demonstrated.

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