Electrocatalytic reduction of 2, 6-dinitrophenol on polycongo red decorated glassy carbon electrode for sensing application

Abstract 2, 6-dinitrophenol (2, 6-DNP) is a toxic chemical with significant negative impact on human health and ecosystem (aquatic lives). Hence, efficient monitoring of this pollutant is key in environmental management. Therefore, this study reported in-situ deposition of polycongo red (PCR) film by electrochemical approach for detection and monitoring of 2, 6-DNP. The synthesized PCR film was characterized by field emission scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and cyclic voltammetry. Being a conductive polymer, PCR film electrocatalyzed reduction of 2, 6-DNP to 2, 6-diaminophenol. The synthesized PCR film displayed satisfactory response towards sensing of 2, 6-DNP with limit of detection (LOD) of 0.1 μM (S/N = 3) and linear range of 0.5 μM to 65 μM. Also, the responses of PCR film towards sensing of 2, 6-DNP was repeatable, reproducible, interference-free with short response time. Lastly, the proposed 2, 6-DNP sensor was satisfactorily used for detection of 2, 6-DNP in environmental real samples.