Swift and Cost-Effective Detection of Nitrite in Environmental Samples Using Ru@Pt Modified PGE

Abstract Abstract: The development of a straightforward method is crucial for detecting and quantifying nitrite ions within the surrounding environment. This study involves the electrochemical fabrication of a bi-metallic alloy composed of Ruthenium and Platinum on a graphene-modified pge, the first-ever electrodeposition on pencil graphite (RuNPs@PtNPs/Gr-CHI). This study aims to establish a highly responsive and specific approach for identifying nitrite ions while demonstrating the efficacy of a commercially available pencil graphite electrode in detecting this environmental contaminant. The prevalence and structural characteristics of bimetallic nanoalloy particles are confirmed through X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). The composite exhibited a core-shell shape at a size of 26.998 nm. The electrooxidation of nitrite at RuNPs@PtNPs/Gr-CHI/PGE was investigated using differential pulse voltammetry. The results demonstrated a satisfactory linear relationship from 0.025 mM to 1.625 mM. The method revealed a low detection limit of 0.33 µM. The composite electrode exhibited favorable outcomes regarding selectivity, sensitivity (25.5 µAµM-1cm-2), and repeatability, which are desirable characteristics of the electrochemical sensor material. The constructed electrode underwent testing for five weeks to determine the stability. The suggested sensor's capability is demonstrated by detecting nitrite ions in real samples such as water, soil, and fruit juice.