A core-shell AZO@ZnO nanostructure for accurate glucose detection with UV-boosted sensitivity

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Flexible electrochemical sensors leverage micro-nanostructures and nanomaterials for enhanced performance.
• Accurate glucose detection is crucial for managing diabetes and monitoring beverages.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize a 3D AZO@ZnONRs core-shell nanostructure for a high-sensitivity glucose sensor.
• To evaluate the sensor's performance, specificity, and photosensitivity for glucose detection.

Main Methods:

• Atomic layer deposition and hydrothermal techniques were used to synthesize the 3D AZO@ZnONRs core-shell nanostructure.
• Fabrication of a flexible electrochemical sensor utilizing the synthesized nanostructure.
• Performance evaluation including sensitivity, linearity, detection limit, and specificity tests.

Main Results:

• The sensor exhibited a linear response from 0-12.5 mM with a sensitivity of 6.49 µA·mM⁻¹·cm⁻² and a detection limit of 1.561 µM.
• Sensitivity increased 1.83-fold under ultraviolet light.
• The sensor demonstrated excellent specificity in the presence of common interferents.

Conclusions:

• The 3D AZO@ZnONRs core-shell nanostructure offers a high specific surface area and enhanced electron transfer for reliable glucose detection.
• The material's photosensitivity further improves detection capabilities, enabling reliable monitoring at extremely low glucose concentrations.
• This work advances photocatalytic electrochemical sensing technology for practical applications.