Sonoelectrochemical fabrication of Pd-graphene nanocomposite and its application in the determination of chlorophenols

A novel electrochemical sensor for chlorophenols was fabricated by using the Pd-graphene nanocomposite and ions liquid. The Pd-graphene nanocomposite was prepared via a sonoelectrochemical route, and the possible formation mechanism was proposed. Transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction and Raman spectrum were used for the characterization of structure and morphology of the nanocomposite. The experimental results showed that Pd nanospheres comprised of small Pd nanoparticles were uniformly attached on graphene sheets. The electrocatalytic properties were investigated by cyclic voltammetry (CV) and differential pulse voltammetry (DPV), which indicated that the Pd-graphene nanocomposite had high activity for chlorophenol oxidation. Herein, 2-chlorophenol was selected as the model molecules. The results showed that graphene played an important role in the fabrication of the chlorophenols sensor. The nanocomposite with large electrochemical active surface led to the excellent electrocatalytic activity, and ionic liquid further enhanced the catalytic activity of Pd-graphene for chlorophenols.

► A novel nanocomposite with 3D Pd NPs on the graphene was fabricated via sonoelectrochemistry.
► The Pd-graphene nanocomposite had high electrocatalytic activity for chlorophenols oxidation.
► An electrochemical sensor for chlorophenols was constructed.
► Ionic liquid was chosen as linker to show an enhanced effect on the electrocatalysis.