Electrochemical Detection of L-Ascorbic Acid and Photocatalytic Application of Cu5V2O10 Nanomaterials

Objectives: The objective of this study was to develop an eco-friendly and multifunctional Cu5V2O10 nanomaterial capable of addressing water pollution and electrochemical sensing challenges. The work aimed to synthesize CuVO nanoparticles using a green combustion method, evaluate their structural and optical properties, and explore their applicability in L-ascorbic acid sensing and photocatalytic dye degradation. Methods: Cu5V2O10 nanoparticles were synthesized via a green solution combustion route using Salvia hispanica seed powder as a bio-fuel, along with copper nitrate and ammonium metavanadate. The synthesis involved heating at 500 °C for 15 minutes followed by calcination at 600 °C for 3 hours. The nanoparticles were characterized using XRD, FTIR, PL, SEM, and UV-Vis spectroscopy. Electrochemical performance was investigated by modifying a glassy carbon electrode and studying its behavior using EIS, CV, and LSV. Photocatalytic activity was evaluated through the degradation of Rose Bengal dye under varying experimental conditions. Findings: XRD confirmed the crystalline nature of Cu5V2O10 nanoparticles, while SEM revealed porous, rod-like aggregated morphologies. Electrochemical studies showed enhanced electron transfer and effective detection of L-ascorbic acid, with CV and LSV responses increasing with scan rate and analyte concentration. The CuVO nanoparticles also exhibited excellent photocatalytic performance, achieving up to 98% degradation of Rose Bengal dye, with catalyst dosage, pH, and dye concentration playing significant roles. Novelty: This study reports, for the first time, a Salvia hispanica seed powder–assisted green solution combustion route for the synthesis of phase-pure Cu5V2O10 nanoparticles, eliminating the need for toxic fuels or surfactants. Beyond synthesis, the work uniquely establishes a single Cu5V2O10 nanomaterial platform exhibiting dual functionality as both a highly sensitive electrochemical sensor and an efficient visible-light-driven photocatalyst. The synergistic enhancement in charge-transfer kinetics and photocatalytic activity, arising from the bio-assisted nanostructure and optimized crystallinity, leads to superior sensing performance and accelerated dye degradation compared to previously reported CuVO systems. This integrated demonstration of eco-friendly synthesis coupled with multifunctional environmental and electrochemical applications constitutes the key scientific advancement of the present work. Keywords: Electrochemical sensing, Ascorbic acid, Rose Bengal, Photocatalysis, Impedance