Simultaneous Multi-Ion Heavy Metal Sensing Using Pulse and Stripping Voltammetry at Functionalized
Aidyn Abilkas1, Nargiz Kazhkenova2, Bakhytzhan Baptayev3
1Department of Biology, Nazarbayev University, Astana 010000, Kazakhstan.
International Journal of Molecular Sciences
|March 28, 2026
Summary
Glassy carbon electrodes modified with nanoparticles offer sensitive electrochemical detection of heavy metals like cadmium and lead. This review highlights advances in these sensors for environmental monitoring.
Area of Science:
- Electrochemistry
- Materials Science
- Environmental Science
Background:
- Heavy metals (e.g., cadmium, lead, mercury, chromium) pose significant environmental and health risks.
- Accurate and rapid monitoring methods are crucial due to established regulatory limits and toxic effects.
- Glassy carbon electrodes (GCEs) offer desirable properties like chemical stability and conductivity for sensor development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advances (past five years) in nanomaterial-modified GCEs for simultaneous heavy metal detection.
- To explore the role of quantum chemical methods in understanding these electrochemical phenomena.
- To highlight the application of these sensors in environmental monitoring.
Main Methods:
- Modification of GCEs with chemically synthesized nanoparticles.
- Electrochemical detection techniques for simultaneous analysis of multiple heavy metal ions.
- Application of quantum chemical methods for mechanistic insights.
Main Results:
- Nanomaterial-modified GCEs demonstrate enhanced sensitivity, selectivity, and faster response times for heavy metal detection.
- Simultaneous detection of cadmium, lead, mercury, and chromium is achievable with these advanced sensors.
- Quantum chemistry aids in understanding the interactions and detection mechanisms.
Conclusions:
- Nanomaterial-modified GCEs represent a promising strategy for sensitive and simultaneous heavy metal detection.
- These sensors offer advantages like cost-effectiveness and portability for environmental monitoring.
- Addressing challenges like electrode fouling and matrix interference is key for future development.
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