Size Controlled Synthesis of Nanometal Oxides for Electrochemical Detection of Heavy Metal Ions

Abstract

This thesis investigates the synthesis and application of size-controlled nanometal oxides for the electrochemical detection of heavy metal ions. Specifically, the fabrication of αFe2O3 (hematite) nano-hexagons using a solvothermal method and their integration into screenprinted carbon electrodes (SPCE) for the sensitive and selective detection of cadmium (Cd2+) ions. The synthesized α-Fe2O3 nano-hexagons exhibit excellent structural and morphological properties, confirmed by techniques such as FESEM, TEM, EDX, and XRD. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) were employed to evaluate the sensor's performance, revealing significant improvements in electron transfer and sensitivity. The sensor demonstrated a detection limit of 0.65 nM and a linear response range from 5 nM to 333 µM for Cd2+ ions. Selectivity tests indicated minimal interference from other metal ions, and practical application in various water samples showed high recovery rates. This research highlights the potential of α-Fe2O3 nano-hexagons modified SPCE for real-time, onsite detection of heavy metal contaminants in environmental water sources.

Date of Award	3 Jul 2024
Original language	American English
Supervisor	Matteo Chiesa (Supervisor)