Synthesis and assembly of ultrathin film of Ni(OH)2 nanoparticles at gas/liquid interface, its high electrocatalytical oxidation toward bio-thiols and selective determination of cysteine

A facile strategy was reported to synthesize and assemble a stable ultrathin film of Ni(OH)2 nanoparticles at gas/liquid interface where the aqueous phase contained Ni2+ and the organic phase was composed of triethylamine toluene solution. The ultrathin film of Ni(OH)2 nanoparticles that precipitated at the interface was transferred onto the electrode surface for the electrocatalysis of bio-thiols and selective electroanalysis of cysteine. The preparation of Ni(OH)2 ultrathin film and its transfer to an electrode substrate is very simple. The obtained Ni(OH)2 ultrathin film modified electrodes are stable, showing high electrochemical oxidation toward bio-thiols and good selectivity toward cysteine in phosphate buffered solution of pH 7.5.

► Ni(OH)2 nanoparticle ultrathin films synthesized and assembled at gas/liquid interface.
► Easily transferred onto the electrode surface.
► Exhibiting high electrochemical oxidation toward bio-thiols in pH 7.5 PBS.