Shape-controlled synthesis and electrocatalytic and direct electron transfer properties of bismuth titanate nanostructures

A facile hydrothermal synthesis strategy for the synthesis of bismuth titanate (Bi4Ti3O12, BT) nanorods (NRs) and nanosheets (NSs) is demonstrated, using which their shapes can be effectively controlled. The novel BT nanostructures were for the first time explored for protein immobilization and biosensing platform and further for studies of electrocatalytic and direct electron transfer (DET) properties. UV–visible absorption and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy investigations indicate that the Hb intercalated in the BTNRs and BTNSs well retains its native structure. Comparative experiments have confirmed that the Hb–Chi–BTNSs electrode has not only enhanced DET capacity but also displays excellent electrocatalytic properties such as higher sensitivity and wider linear range to the detection of hydrogen peroxide in comparison with the Hb–Chi–BTNRs electrode. We believe that BTNSs with unique structure and excellent DET and eletrocatalytic performance are expected to find potential applications in nanodevices and biomedicine, food and environmental analysis and detection.