Cu-based metal-organic framework HKUST-1 as effective catalyst for highly sensitive determination of ascorbic acid

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) offer tunable properties for various applications.
• HKUST-1, a copper-based MOF, is synthesized and characterized.
• Electrochemical sensors are crucial for detecting biomolecules like ascorbic acid.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize and characterize HKUST-1 nanosheets.
• To develop an electrochemical sensor for ascorbic acid (AA) detection using HKUST-1.
• To investigate the sensing performance and mechanism of the HKUST-1 modified electrode.

Main Methods:

• Solvent method synthesis of HKUST-1 at room temperature.
• Characterization using SEM, TEM, AFM, XRD, FTIR, Raman, N2 adsorption, EDS, and EA.
• Fabrication of an indium tin oxide (ITO) electrode modified with HKUST-1.
• Electrochemical measurements including cyclic voltammetry and amperometry.

Main Results:

• HKUST-1 nanosheets were successfully synthesized and characterized.
• The HKUST-1 modified electrode exhibited sensitive and selective electrochemical oxidation of AA.
• An equal-electron-equal-proton reaction mechanism was identified.
• A wide linear detection range (0.01-265 mM) and a low limit of detection (3 μM) were achieved.
• The sensor showed good stability, reproducibility, and selectivity against common interferents.

Conclusions:

• HKUST-1 nanosheets provide a promising platform for developing highly sensitive electrochemical sensors.
• The porous structure of HKUST-1 enhances surface area and electron transfer for improved sensing.
• The developed sensor is effective for real-sample analysis, as demonstrated with AA-containing tablets.