Efficient Catalysis Based on ZnFe2O4/BSN-rGO Nanoparticles for Chlorogenic Acid Detection

Chlorogenic acid (CGA), a plant-derived phenolic compound, possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activities. Accurate quantification is essential due to its therapeutic value and potential toxicity at high doses.

To develop a rapid, sensitive electrochemical method for CGA detection using spinel-based catalysts with improved conductivity.

An electrochemical sensing platform was constructed based on a nanocomposite of ZnFe2O4 and boron, sulfur, and nitrogen co-doped reduced graphene oxide (BSN-rGO). This hybrid material effectively addresses the intrinsic poor conductivity of spinel oxides by leveraging the synergistic effect between the catalytic activity of ZnFe2O4 and the superior charge transport capability of BSN-rGO. The resulting sensor enabled rapid and quantitative analysis of CGA within 2 min.

The sensor showed a linear detection range of 1 × 10-4 -1 × 10-1 M and a low detection limit of 1 × 10-6 M (S/N = 3). Adding standard recovery reached 97.48 to 100.75%, with RSDs of 1.02 to 2.95%, indicating excellent accuracy and reproducibility in complex matrixes.

The proposed method enables rapid and reliable CGA detection in natural products, offering potential for pharmaceutical and food analysis.

BSN-rGO integration enhances spinel conductivity and boosts electrochemical sensing performance.