A reliable sensing platform based on tribenzamide for sensitive and selective detection of Pb (II) ions

In this study, a sensitive and selective sensor based on N-{4-[2-(1,3-benzoxazolyl)]phenyl}-3,5-N,N'-bis(4-hex-yloxybenzoyl)benzamide (BOC6) as a modifier of the Glassy Carbon Electrode (GCE) was developed for the detection of Pb (II) ions. The sensing ability of the designed electrochemical platform was investigated by using square wave anodic stripping voltammetry (SWASV) because of its fast speed analysis and better sensitivity than conventional techniques. The significantly intense electrochemical signal of oxidized Pb (II) at -0.46 V versus Ag/AgCl demonstrated the improved sensing performance of BOC6/GCE as compared to bare GCE. A number of conditions such as concentration of the modifier, pH of the supporting electrolyte, accumulation potential and accumulation time were optimized to get the best response of BOC6/GCE for the detection of target analyte. Under optimized conditions, the linear concentration range of lead ions at BOC6/GCE extended from 5 nM to 50 nM with a detection limit of 15 pM. The designed sensor demonstrated the qualities of sensitivity, selectivity, stability, reproducibility and practical applicability. Hence, the proposed analytical platform can be employed for detecting Pb (II) ions without any amplification and sophisticated instrumentation.

Automated summary

In this study, a sensitive and selective sensor based on BOC6-modified GCE was developed for the detection of Pb(II) ions. The electrochemical platform showed improved sensing performance compared to bare GCE. Under optimized conditions, the sensor exhibited a linear concentration range and a low detection limit for lead ions. It demonstrated qualities of sensitivity, selectivity, stability, reproducibility, and practical applicability.