Controlled electrodeposition of brookite TiO₂ for photoelectroanalysis at printed carbon electrodes

Author(s)

Bott-Neto, Jose L. ; Martins, Thiago S. ; Oliveira, Osvaldo N. ; Marken, Frank

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: Applied Surface Science; v. 640, p. 7-pg., 2023-12-15.

Abstract

TiO2-based photoelectrochemical (PEC) (bio)sensors have high photoactivity, chemical stability, and biocompatibility. However, their performance depends on multiple factors, including deposition method, morphology, and interaction with the target analyte. Herein, we describe a PEC platform based on TiO2 electrodeposition directly onto printed carbon electrodes (without heat treatment), designed for point-of-care (POC) applications. Brookite TiO2 nanocrystals were synthesized via electrodeposition in an acidic solution containing TiCl3, and parameters such as pH and temperature were optimized to improve photoelectrocatalytic activity. Photoelectrooxidation of ascorbic acid (AA) with electrodes prepared under optimal conditions (pH 2.5, 80 degrees C) had 10.5 times higher photocurrents than electrodes modified with commercial TiO2 nanoparticles via drop casting. The resulting sensor was highly sensitive and selective for AA, with a linear range from 10 to 1000 & mu;M and a limit of detection of 3.25 & mu;M (S/N = 3). Since brookite TiO2 electrodeposition does not require thermal treatment, printed carbon electrodes on polymer substrates can be used in producing miniaturized devices for sensitive, selective PEC (bio)sensors. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 19/13514-9 - Electrochemical sensors with a matrix containing graphene quantum dots or nanoribbons for the detection of biomarkers
• Grantee: Jose Luiz Bott Neto
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Post-Doctoral
• FAPESP's process: 18/22214-6 - Towards a convergence of technologies: from sensing and biosensing to information visualization and machine learning for data analysis in clinical diagnosis
• Grantee: Osvaldo Novais de Oliveira Junior
• Support Opportunities: Research Projects - Thematic Grants
• FAPESP's process: 22/03758-0 - Integrated dual electrochemical device for multiplexed detection of biomarkers
• Grantee: Thiago Serafim Martins
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Post-Doctoral
• FAPESP's process: 22/00243-0 - Developing new components and processes in visible light activated biosensors
• Grantee: Jose Luiz Bott Neto
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships abroad - Research Internship - Post-doctor